Staff Accountant

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a Staff Accountant to join a mission-driven nonprofit organization in Chicago, Illinois. This contract opportunity is ideal for an accounting specialist who enjoys managing day-to-day financial activities, working independently, and supporting accurate reporting in a collaborative environment. The role offers a blend of core accounting responsibilities and grant-related financial oversight, with the opportunity to contribute to process improvements as the team evolves.

Responsibilities:
• Manage day-to-day accounts payable activity, including invoice processing, reimbursements, and preparation of manual payments.
• Maintain the general ledger by recording journal entries, reviewing account activity, and ensuring transactions are properly classified.
• Complete bank and account reconciliations on a regular basis to support accurate financial records and timely close activities.
• Monitor grant-related financial activity, track spending against funding sources, and assist with reporting requirements tied to restricted funds.
• Perform account analysis and investigate variances or discrepancies to improve accuracy across financial statements.
• Oversee credit card accounting and ensure expenses are documented, coded correctly, and reconciled promptly.
• Prepare Excel-based schedules, reports, and supporting documentation for accounting reviews and internal decision-making.
• Contribute to broader accounting operations while helping strengthen workflows and support increased use of automated expense management tools.• Detail-oriented experience in staff or senior staff accounting with the ability to manage core accounting functions independently.
• Strong knowledge of general ledger activity, journal entries, reconciliations, and account analysis.
• Hands-on experience with accounts payable processes, including reimbursements, manual payments, and expense review.
• Background in grant accounting is strongly preferred, particularly within a nonprofit setting.
• Advanced Excel skills with the ability to build, maintain, and analyze financial schedules and reports.
• Familiarity with corporate tax, sales tax, and corporate tax return support is beneficial.
• Strong attention to detail, sound organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively in a hands-on environment.