Accountant

Position Summary

The Accountant is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records and supporting the daily accounting operations of the organization. This position performs general ledger accounting, account reconciliations, journal entries, accounts payable and receivable functions, payroll support, grant accounting, and financial reporting. The Staff Accountant works closely with the finance team to ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), organizational policies, grant requirements, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

General Accounting

• Prepare and post journal entries.
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure the accuracy of financial records.
• Reconcile bank accounts, credit cards, and balance sheet accounts monthly.
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing activities.
• Prepare schedules and supporting documentation for financial reports.

Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable

• Process vendor invoices and employee reimbursements.
• Ensure timely payment of approved invoices.
• Prepare customer invoices and monitor collections.
• Reconcile vendor and customer accounts.

Payroll and Benefits Support

• Process payroll and payroll reconciliations.
• Reconcile payroll-related accounts and benefit deductions.
• Maintain payroll records and supporting documentation.

Grant Accounting

• Track grant expenditures and ensure compliance with grant requirements.
• Prepare grant financial reports and supporting documentation.
• Assist with grant budget monitoring and reconciliations.

Financial Reporting

• Assist in preparing monthly financial statements and management reports.
• Analyze financial transactions and investigate discrepancies.
• Prepare reports requested by management, auditors, and funding agencies.

Audit and Compliance

• Assist with annual financial audits and single audits.
• Maintain documentation supporting financial transactions.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and accounting policies.
• Assist with Form 990 and other regulatory reporting.

Other Responsibilities

• Support budget preparation and forecasting.
• Recommend process improvements to increase efficiency and strengthen internal controls.
• Cross-train with other finance staff to provide backup support.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
• CPA is not required but preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 2–4 years of progressively responsible accounting experience.
• Nonprofit and grant accounting experience preferred.
• Experience with payroll processing is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of GAAP.
• Understanding of nonprofit accounting principles and restricted funds.
• Experience with month-end and year-end close.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with accounting and payroll software (such as Rippling, Sage Intacct, NetSuite, QuickBooks, or MIP Fund Accounting).
• Experience with financial reporting and data analysis.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer work.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.

Working Conditions

• Occasional overtime may be required during month-end, year-end, audits, and budget preparation.

Mission Action (www.misstionaction.org) is an equal-opportunity employer which values lived experience and seeks applicants of the greatest diversity possible. We encourage people of color, women, older people, members of the LGBTQ community, and individuals with disabilities, including HIV and community members who grew up in the Mission District. Pursuant to the SF Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.