Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago partners with mission-driven people and organizations across Cook and Lake counties to witness a message of mercy and hope to a world in need by improving lives and nourishing spirits; strengthening and empowering people, families, and communities; and committing to being present to our times through the eyes of faith.

Role Overview
The Senior Staff Accountant - Programs provides end‑to‑end accounting support through accurate financial reporting, analysis, reconciliations, and compliance oversight while collaborating with leadership, programs, auditors, and funders to support sound financial decision‑making.

Job Responsibilities

Provide comprehensive accounting support to department leadership by managing a wide range of fiscal responsibilities. This includes reviewing and validating program expenditures, preparing and submitting journal entries, deposits, and program billings, and ensuring all financial transactions are completed accurately and in compliance with internal policies, professional standards, and external regulatory requirements.
Conduct in-depth financial analysis to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement. Prepare detailed financial projections and reports, and communicate findings clearly and proactively to the Department Director, Accounting Manager, Controller, and program staff to support data-driven decision-making and strategic planning.
Lead the reconciliation of revenue and receivables in the general ledger during the month-end close process. Investigate and resolve discrepancies in accounts, ensure proper documentation is maintained, and prepare necessary adjustments and journal entries to maintain the integrity of financial records. Act as the primary liaison for external funders and auditors, coordinating responses and documentation in collaboration with supervisory staff. Ensure that all audit and funding requirements are met with accuracy and timeliness, and that the organization remains in good standing with all relevant stakeholders.
Collaborate closely with program teams, internal departments, and external partners to address and resolve accounting issues. This includes administering petty cash for assigned programs when applicable, reconciling organizational credit card transactions, gathering supporting documentation, and contributing to the continuous improvement of financial operations and internal controls.
Engage in ongoing learning, training, and skill development, seeking and applying feedback to continuously improve performance and contribute to team and organizational success.

PLEASE NOTE: Essential functions include all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Kneel and move from sitting, bending, kneeling, or standing multiple times a day
Climb up and down up to 3 flights of stairs at a time
Lift, push, and pull up to 25 lbs

Other Requirements: Comply with program and/or requirements related to:

Background check

Education and Experience Requirements:

Minimum

Bachelor's Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in a related field of study 3-5 years relevant experience
Program expenditure review, journal entries and billings, receivables and revenue reconciliation, audit support, ERP use, Microsoft Office/Excel

Preferred

Master's degree in a related field of study 5+ years relevant experience
Cost allocation modeling

Certifications and Licensure

Preferred CPA candidate or CPA

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