Staff Accountant

Job Details

Job Location:

Jacobson Center Headquarters - Ames, IA 50010
Position Type:
Full Time
Salary Range: $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 Salary/year

Job Shift: Day
Job Category:
Administrative

At YSS, every dollar has a purpose—and every financial decision impacts the youth and families we serve. We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Staff Accountant who thrives on organization, accuracy, and problem-solving. This is an opportunity to play a key role in strengthening financial processes, improving reporting, and helping build a solid foundation for future growth.

Under the supervision of the CFO, the Staff Accountant will ensure accurate data entry into the general ledger through monthly account reconciliations and assist with adjusting entries, monthly financials, and the annual budget process. This position will work closely with the Finance team and other departments to provide precise and timely financial reporting that aligns with our agency's mission.

• Analyze monthly revenues and expenses to support financial statement preparation.
• Prepare assigned account reconciliations to ensure accuracy in financial reporting.
• Support month-end close, including general ledger review, journal entries, accruals, and Wells One coding review.

• Assist with monthly financial reporting and distribution to agency departments.
• Support annual budgeting and forecasting activities in partnership with the CFO and Finance team.

• Support grant billing, funding tracking updates, and program-specific billing needs (including ASSET and Aftercare).
• Assist with finance projects, research requests, and maintenance of financial policies and procedures.

• Provide backup support to the Accounting Manager and Finance team as needed.
• Enter charitable contributions into the donor database and assist with monthly fundraising reports.
• Participate in internal meetings and support Finance team priorities.
• Collaborate across programs to support campus operations and mission delivery.

You're detail-oriented and steady, with a knack for bringing structure to complex financial information. You enjoy digging into the details, resolving discrepancies, and creating accurate, reliable numbers others can trust. You understand that strong accounting supports strong mission work.

• Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture
• Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees

• Comprehensive health insurance
• Voluntary dental and vision insurance
• Life insurance and long-term disability coverage
• Supplemental accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) / Health Savings Account (HSA) options
• Flu shots and mental health support resources
• Paid membership to the Athletic Club of Ames

• Generous paid time off (4 weeks PTO)
• Paid holidays, including a birthday holiday
• Volunteer time off

• Competitive salary
• Supplemental compensation award
• 403(b) retirement savings plan

• Professional liability insurance coverage
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualified employer

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field
• At least three years accounting, auditing, or finance experience
• Proficiency with Excel (sorting, formulas, data review, basic analysis)
• Experience with systems such as Net Suite, Sage Intacct, Quick Books, or similar ERP tools

• Understanding of GAAP and basic financial reporting principles
• Experience with account reconciliations, journal entries, and month-end close processes
• Experience supporting audits and preparing audit schedules
• Nonprofit accounting experience, especially fund or grant accounting
• Experience with restricted funds, grants, or donor-restricted revenue
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify and resolve discrepancies
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines, especially during month-end close
• Clear communicator who can work across departments

• Naturally curious and persistent when numbers don’t align
• Reliable, steady, and able to follow through independently
• Understands that strong financial systems support mission impact
• Is rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact
• Brings humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction

We value the unique backgrounds, identities, and experiences each team member brings. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we’re committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where everyone can grow and succeed. YSS is a nicotine-free workplace.