Staff Accountant

Brief DescriptionSummary of Position: The Staff Accountant plays a key role in supporting and executing core accounting functions across accounts payable, accounts receivable, and grant activity. This position is responsible for reviewing and preparing financial transactions, applying accounting principles to ensure accurate coding and allocation of expenses across programs and funding sources, and maintaining the integrity of financial data. The Staff Accountant works closely with the Accounting Manager, program staff, and finance team to support accurate financial reporting and compliance with nonprofit and grant requirements, while exercising judgment in identifying and resolving discrepancies and supporting month-end close and audit processes.Specific DutiesAccounts Payable & Allocation ReviewReview and evaluate vendor invoices for accuracy, proper documentation, and appropriate coding.Apply judgment in verifying expense allocations to programs, grants, and funding sources prior to posting.Maintain vendor files, including W 9s and contact information.Assist with accounts payable reconciliations, including vendor statement review.Resolve invoice discrepancies and allocation questions.Reconcile company credit card activity and follow up on missing or incomplete documentation.Assist with preparation of annual 1099 forms.Accounts Receivable & Cash ManagementRecord and review cash, check, and electronic receipts for accuracy and proper classification.Prepare and verify deposits from revenue centers.Investigate and resolve discrepancies in deposits and receivables balances.Manage routine accounts receivable responsibilities, including billing support, receipt posting, and customer account maintenance.Assist with accounts receivable reconciliations, including subledger to general ledger tie outs.Coordinate and provide guidance to program staff on billing and payment issues.Grant Accounting SupportMonitor and review allowable costs and ensure expenses are appropriately allocated to grants.Prepare and review grant and contract vouchers as assigned.Maintain organized supporting documentation for grant expenses.Analyze grant expenditures against budgets and identify discrepancies. Support audits by compiling and interpreting documentation for grants and programs.Assist with year end grant reporting and SEFA preparation as needed.Monthly Closing & Reporting SupportPrepare journal entries related to accounts payable, receivable, and grant activity.Assist with monthly bank and account reconciliations.Review and analyze account activity to ensure accuracy and completeness.Support month end close by ensuring AP and AR activity is complete and accurate.Assist with preparation of monthly and year-end financial reports.Identify and investigate variances or discrepancies and recommend corrections. Other DutiesMaintain electronic and paper accounting records in accordance with retention policies.Perform filing and administrative accounting tasks as needed.Adhere to the organization’s Code of Conduct and Core Values.Participate in finance process improvement efforts.Perform additional duties as assigned by Accounting Manager.RequirementsThe following qualifications are requirements for the position:Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience.1–3 years of accounting experience, preferably with accounts payable and accounts receivable.Experience or exposure to expense allocation and coding, especially in a nonprofit or grant funded environment.Basic understanding of nonprofit or fund accounting principles preferred.Experience with accounting systems; Blackbaud Financial Edge a plus.Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, with intermediate Excel skills.Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.Good written and verbal communication skills.Other RequirementsMust successfully complete a criminal background check and provide proof of a current tuberculosis test.Willingness to work limited additional hours during month end close as needed.This job description is not designed as a full listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for their job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.Equal Opportunity: We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.SummaryFor nearly 40 years, Connections for the Homeless has served and catalyzed our community to end homelessness, one person at a time. Each year we provide eviction prevention, shelter, and housing services to 4,000 people from across north suburban Cook County. Beyond providing direct services we also operate a robust advocacy and community organizing program to address the root causes of homelessness. The COVID pandemic accelerated our growth in the depth and breadth of services we offer and the organizational infrastructure to sustain this highly impactful organization. Connections is a radically reshaped organization deeply committed to demonstrating our core values in all relationships with participants, colleagues, donors, partners, and volunteers.Join our dedicated team at Connections for the Homeless, where we blend a commitment to making a difference with a competitive rewards package. Our full-time employees enjoy a range of benefits, consciously crafted through an equitable lens, to support their well-being and professional growth.At Connections for the Homeless, we recognize that supporting our employees is essential in achieving our mission. We are ready to invest in you as you make a difference in our community. We can't wait for you to join us!