Finance Specialist

About CHOOSE 180

CHOOSE 180 transforms systems of injustice and supports the young people who are too often impacted by these systems. We envision a future where youthful behavior is decriminalized and young people are offered restorative practices in lieu of traditional prosecution. In place of the school-to-prison pipeline, a community will exist to see youth as possibilities, not problems to be solved and help young people realize their potential and provide them with the tools necessary to achieve their goals.

CHOOSE 180 is made up of passionate individuals who together create a workplace deeply rooted in the community. We place an emphasis on bringing your whole self to the work of CHOOSE 180 as it is our shared conviction that you can't compartmentalize greatness and to do so we have created a safe space for our team to be supported in their highs, lows and everything in between. This is the secret to our impact; passionate people who are committed to being their best, so that they can give their best to our youth and young adults.


Job purpose:

The Finance Specialist supports CHOOSE 180's financial health by maintaining accurate financial records, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and funding requirements, supporting budgeting and financial reportings, managing grant and contract financial processes, and strengthening financial systems that advance CHOOSE 180's long-term sustainability.


Duties and key responsibilities:

• Financial Accounting
• • Maintains the general ledger, including month-end account reconciliations/closings, and the preparation of monthly financial statements.
  • Identifies and corrects reconciliation issues in a timely manner.
  • Prepares and records journal entries.
  • Supports the Chief of Finance in receiving and submitting invoicing requirements
  • Ensures financial records comply with US GAAP standards, e.g. ASC 958 and 606.
• Financial Compliance & Accounting
• • Ensure compliance with our standard operating procedures, internal controls, and external funding restrictions.
  • Continue to evaluate and update our internal controls and incorporate best practices.
  • Train staff on financial processes and procedures.
  • With support from the Chief of Finance, work with and support our finance contractors for various projects including annual reviews or audits and 990 tax filings.
  • Respond to financial correspondence and needs that arise.
  • Raise risk flags or financial whistleblowing when necessary to the Core Leadership team.
• Financial Analysis and Budgeting
• • Support budget creation, review, and input into financial systems.
  • Work collaboratively with leadership to appropriately forecast and build budgets and problem solve.
  • Exercise sound fiscal responsibility through a lens of eliminating waste and opportunities for fraud.
• Financial Reporting
• • Create and share month end reconciliations and reports including P&L statements and balance sheets.
  • Performs regular reconciliations across departments including donors, grants and contracts.
  • Support Board reports and annual reports.
• Supports the overall goals and mission of the department and organization
• • Attend and participate fully in all relevant meetings and committees, including staff meetings, supervision meetings, and trainings.
  • Provide additional support as needed for ad hoc projects.
  • Lead according to the Mission, Vision & Values of the organization.

Desired qualifications for this position:

• Commitment to the vision and goals of CHOOSE 180
• Experience working with or in the criminal legal system
• 0-4 years of accounting experience
• Bachelor's degree in accounting or equivalent experience
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or progress toward either certification preferred
• Prior 501(c)(3) nonprofit accounting experience preferred
• Entrepreneurial and results-oriented with ability to anticipate/respond to changing circumstances/priorities
• Strong interpersonal and customer care skills with ability to communicate successfully through multiple media channels
• Familiarity with US GAAP, including ASC 958 and ASC 606
• Ability to build and maintain policies and procedures and communicate them clearly
• Understanding of local, state, and federal government grant sources
• Working knowledge of Uniform Guidance of Federal Awards
• Experience with financial management of grants and contracts
• Understanding of emerging technologies, including AI, that improve workflows for financial analysis and operations
• Excellent writing, analytical, and research skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products, especially Microsoft Excel, and accounting software required, such as Quickbooks Online
• Successfully manages projects involving multiple stakeholders, participants, and deliverables
• Able to build relationships and effectively communicate with internal partners across a variety of functions and levels.
• High level of personal accountability, reliability, and trustworthiness.
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills
• Proven ability to multitask, set priorities, and meet deadlines with attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to work independently
• Ability to work successfully in a collaborative, team-oriented organization.
• Highly motivated, resourceful, flexible, and possesses a positive attitude.

Working conditions:

This position is required to work some weekend days as well as attend after-hours events, and to be available for consultation when needed. In addition, this position may be called upon and must be capable of compassionate de-escalation and crisis intervention involving youth and/or family members working through trauma.


Compensation and benefits:

CHOOSE 180 is committed to providing employees with a living wage and benefits package. The starting pay for this position is $33.65 an hour. Position comes with medical, dental, and vision benefits, as well as generous paid time off.


To apply:

Please visit the website at and apply online by submitting your resume. Position open until filled.

CHOOSE 180 an Equal Opportunity employer regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, disabilities, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. Those who have experienced incarceration are encouraged to apply.