Grant Staff Accountant

Grant Staff Accountant (Contract to Hire)

Location:

Chicago, IL near the West Side

Hourly Rate: $30 - $35

Position Summary

Our client is seeking a detail-oriented Grant Staff Accountant to support day-to-day accounting operations, grant administration, financial reporting, and compliance activities. This role will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, assisting with month-end close processes, supporting audits, and ensuring adherence to organizational accounting policies and procedures.

Key Responsibilities

Accounts Payable & Vendor Management

• Review and process invoices, expense requests, and vendor payments.
• Maintain accurate vendor information and supporting records.
• Assist with weekly payment processing activities.

Accounts Receivable & Revenue Tracking

• Record program revenue, grants, donations, and other incoming funds.
• Prepare deposits and reconcile revenue transactions.
• Monitor outstanding balances and assist with collection efforts.

Grant Accounting Support

• Track grant budgets and monitor expenditures.
• Prepare documentation required for reimbursement requests.
• Maintain grant-related records and compliance files.
• Assist with financial reporting for grant-funded programs.

General Accounting

• Reconcile bank accounts, credit cards, and balance sheet accounts.
• Prepare journal entries and account reconciliations.
• Support monthly and annual close activities.
• Maintain records related to prepaid expenses and fixed assets.

Audit & Compliance

• Organize accounting records and supporting schedules for audits.
• Assist with external audit requests and grant compliance reviews.
• Follow internal accounting policies and established controls.
• Provide backup support for payroll and other accounting functions.
• Participate in special projects and additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger accounting.
• Knowledge of grant accounting and nonprofit financial reporting preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Understanding of financial controls, audit support, and compliance requirements.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline required.
• Minimum of 3 years of accounting experience required.
• Experience in nonprofit or grant-funded environments is a plus.

Job Type: Full-Time

Location:

Chicago, IL near West Side (100% onsite) Compensation: $70,000 - $75,000 per year. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, paid holidays, life insurance, and other company-sponsored benefit programs.