Accounting Specialist

Our client, a non-profit philanthropic organization in Detroit has an opening for an Accounting Specialist. This role is temp to hire, possibly direct hire, $32-40/hour, 80% in-office, great benefits/PTO package upon hire-in.

The Accounting Specialist is responsible for supporting the nonprofit's financial operations by processing transactions, maintaining accurate financial records, and assisting with routine accounting functions. This role ensures compliance with organizational policies and funder requirements while providing critical support to finance and administrative teams. The Accounting Specialist also contributes to the smooth management of financial data and may assist with related administrative tasks to support overall organizational effectiveness.

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Accounting & Financial Operations (40%)

*Manage the full-cycle accounts payable process, including verifying approvals, data entry, payment preparation, and resolving billing discrepancies.

*Communicate with internal stakeholders, vendors, and financial institutions to ensure timely and accurate payments.

General Ledger Support (20%)

*Support the Controller and Assistant Controller in managing the general ledger, including preparation and entry of journal entries and performing monthly bank reconciliations.

*Assist with special accounting projects as assigned.

Contract & Vendor Management (20%)

*Oversee the entry and tracking of consulting contracts, working closely with staff to ensure proper documentation and payment scheduling.

*Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of contracts and vendor information in the accounting system.

Benefits Support (10%)

*Assist in the administration and tracking of the Foundation's employee benefit plans, including onboarding and offboarding processes.

*Maintain employee personnel files and support time off tracking and other HR-related documentation.

*Collaborate with the Vice President of Finance & Administration to ensure accurate benefit plan implementation and compliance.

Audit & Compliance (10%)

*Support the preparation for the annual financial statement audit and tax return filings.

*Coordinate the 1099 issuance process for all vendors in compliance with IRS requirements.

Qualifications, Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

A successful candidate will possess a majority of the following professional and personal attributes and competencies:

*Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field required

*3-5 years of relevant accounting experience, preferably in a nonprofit or philanthropic organization.

*Experience processing accounts payable, accounts receivable, journal entries, and bank reconciliations with a high degree of accuracy.

*Proficiency with accounting software and Excel; experience migrating or sunsetting financial systems is a plus.

*Ability to manage and track financial transactions related to grants, contracts, and program expenses.

*Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to maintaining accurate records during a period of organizational transition.

*Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in a fast-paced, time-bound environment.

*Effective communication skills and the ability to interact with staff across departments with clarity and professionalism.

*High degree of integrity, reliability, and discretion when handling sensitive financial data

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.