Grant Accountant

Overview The Grant Accountant reports to the Chief Financial Officer and supports the Finance Team with a wide range of financial duties. The role focuses on accounting and reporting functions related to grant-funded awards and contracts, owns the accounts related to these grants, and provides insight and guidance to internal stakeholders. The position also handles reporting to funders and acts as a liaison to ensure timely and accurate information exchange. Certain monthly and annual closing responsibilities will belong to this position. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Compiles and analyzes financial information to prepare general ledger entries, documenting business transactions as related to grant funding. Reviews and approves accounts payable and journal entries for accuracy and posts to the general ledger as needed with the CFO's guidance. Analyzes financial information and reviews profit and loss statements and other reports to summarize current and projected financial position for management as it relates to grant funding and various programs and activities. Audits contracts, orders, and vouchers, and prepares reports to substantiate individual transactions prior to settlement. Makes recommendations regarding the accounting of reserves, assets, and expenditures. Assists program personnel in writing periodic reports to comply with grant funding requirements. Maintains master grant files with original grant documents, correspondence, and closeout documents in both physical and electronic formats when appropriate. Sets up and maintains all accounts, funds, and other codes and the combination of those codes. Interacts with and assists staff with financial information for grant applications, quarterly reports, and annual/closeout reports. Works with the Finance Team on desk audits and compliance visits, prepares reports, and provides critical information as requested. Performs a variety of backup functions within the finance department including grant reporting, accounts payable, report preparation, and other duties as requested. Prepares information for and provides information to and works with auditors/regulatory personnel as directed. Exercises a high level of independent judgment and discretion, including proposal analysis, budget preparation with supporting documentation/justification, and programmatic grant support. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge General accounting and financial reporting procedures in accordance with the State of Illinois GATA Standards, GAAP, and OMB. Accounting Software (MIP or SAGE preferred). General office software, particularly Microsoft Office Suite. Accounts payable and general ledger accounting. Grants accounting or cost accounting. Skills and Abilities Analyze and solve problems effectively and efficiently. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Interface easily with staff, senior and executive management personnel, and funding sources. Work well with and be responsive to the needs of internal and external customers, funding sources, other provider organizations, and regulatory agencies. Manage priorities effectively to meet deadlines and demonstrate multi-tasking skills. Assimilate new information and technology. Demonstrate a high level of ethics with integrity; be self-motivated, dependable and reliable, and detail-oriented. Possess a valid driver’s license. Education and Experience Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or related field. Equivalent practical experience may be considered. Minimum 2 years of experience in accounting and/or financial reporting is required. Experience with a nonprofit social service agency or grant accounting is preferred. Physical Demands and Work Environment While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, climb stairs, and sit. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. The work environment is in an office setting. Project NOW is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We celebrate the unique differences of our employees because that is what drives our mission. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Accommodation is available for applicants with disabilities. Positions within Project NOW are primarily grant-funded and funding decreases can affect our staffing needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr