Job Listing: Staff Accountant
Position: Full-time
Location: Remote
Salary: $65,000 to $80,000 per year
Apply: Email a cover letter and resume to humanresources@firstwa.org
Organization Overview
FIRST Washington (FIRST WA, www.firstwa.org) is a regional not-for-profit organization that implements STEM programs in K-12 schools under a partnership agreement with the international non-profit, FIRST (www.firstinspires.org) as well a locally developed teacher training curriculum. FIRST Washington focuses on statewide access to STEM programs for all students, with particular focus on girls, people of color, and rural areas.
FIRST and FIRST Washington have a shared mission of inspiring young people from kindergarten through high school to innovate and become science and technology leaders through mentor-based programs. It is the only integrated program of its kind running from kindergarten through 12th grade. Our programs are designed not only to teach technical skills but also leadership and teamwork. Students build and learn skills in science, engineering and technology and robotics. They also build confidence, develop critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills.
FIRST Washington is an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Position Overview
The Staff Accountant, reporting to the Director of Finance and Administration, will handle day-to-day accounting, payroll, and bank transactions as well as related correspondence with vendors, grant recipients, and staff to ensure compliance with finance and accounting policies and procedures.
Primary Responsibilities
- Prepare financial data as requested for such projects as donor reports, grant proposals, and reporting for audit preparation.
- Coordinate all grant programs including applicant tracking, completing required submissions, and other reports as required by each individual grant. Ensure accurate grant balances in the accounting system.
- Develop grant award timelines including date of drafted grant application, date of grant launch, close, milestones, awardee determination, and dates of required reports.
- Professionally manage and communicate grant requirements and priorities to all involved parties and agencies, including amounts available for each FIRST Washington program, as well as data used to determine award amounts and any rubrics used for application evaluation.
- Maintain detailed and accurate records of all grant activity as well as accurate, complete, and up-to-date recipient information.
- Record billing invoices and track accounts receivable in the accounting system. Reconcile assigned ledgers each period to ensure all records are complete and accurate.
- Collaborate with the Development and Programs teams to ensure that donations are recorded accurately and that key reports and entries are in-sync across the fundraising and accounting systems.
- Process semi-monthly payroll journal entries including contractor payments and employee reimbursements.
- Identify and recommend areas for improvement in processes and systems to ensure accurate and efficient financial data.
- Create, save, and file electronic copies of all supporting documentation for all processes and work products.
- Develop documentation of daily tasks and all procedures in a clear and documented manner to assist other staff members supporting the department during peak seasons and during any periods of leave.
- Promote and ensure adherence to internal policies for all activities and work products.
- Serve as a champion for FIRST Washington’s commitment to honesty and transparency in all financial matters.
- Prepare and record bank deposits in the accounting system and track balances in bank accounts daily. Assist month-end closing process, including performing multiple monthly bank reconciliations, research, and timely resolution of discrepancies.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field is required, with preference given to candidates with a degree in accounting.
- 3+ years accounting experience; non-profit experience preferred.
- High level of attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Advanced computer literacy including Microsoft Office, especially Excel; experience with accounting software.
- Self-motivated, and proactive in asking for help when needed.
- Extremely high level of trustworthiness, integrity, and work ethic.
- Works well with others as well as independently.
- Ability to work at a computer for extended periods of time.
- Reliable high-speed internet connection and work area free from distraction to facilitate concentrated work and online meetings via Teams.
Position Details and Benefits
- This is a remote-work, full-time, exempt salaried position with eligibility for company benefits.
- Preference will be given to applicants residing in Washington State and Oregon State.
- The organization provides comprehensive benefits, including full coverage for medical, dental, vision, and life insurance for all employees.
- Employees are eligible to participate in the organization-sponsored retirement plan with company matching after one year of service. Other benefits are described in the employee handbook.
- The organization provides paid time off for 11 holidays, as well as for the week between Christmas and New Year's in addition to paid time off.
This description is not exhaustive. Position may include other duties as assigned.