Accounting Specialist

Description

Helping Hand is seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Accounting Specialist to join our Finance team. In this role, you will help maintain the accuracy and integrity of our financial operations while supporting an organization dedicated to transforming lives through genuine care and education.

Reporting to the Controller/Director of Finance, the Accounting Specialist will manage key accounting activities, including accounts payable, cash receipts, account reconciliations, client allowance payments, and financial reporting. The ideal candidate is organized, analytical, collaborative, and committed to completing work accurately and on time.

• On-site position, Monday-Friday.
• 40 hours per week.
• Salary range: $52,000–$57,000/year (exempt).
• Salary based on skills and experience.
• Up to 8% annual bonus potential.
• 403b retirement plan with up to a 4% company match.

• Purpose-driven work that changes lives.
• Tuition reimbursement and clear career growth opportunities.
• Traditional medical (BCBS of IL), dental, and vision insurance.
• Employer-paid Group Life/AD&D, Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability.
• Team member appreciation events and year-round recognition.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness support.
• Generous PTO including paid holidays, vacation, accrued sick time, and personal days.
• PSLF-qualifying employer under the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

• Manage the full accounts payable cycle, including invoice processing, coding, approval coordination, payments, and record maintenance.
• Work directly with vendors to research and resolve invoice discrepancies, payment questions, and other accounts payable matters.

• Coordinate deposits, post cash receipts, and ensure revenue is accurately recorded in the appropriate accounts.
• Partner with Helping Hand's Advancement Department to ensure donations and other deposits are properly documented and recorded.

• Reconcile monthly corporate credit card and client LINK card accounts.
• Verify charges, collect supporting documentation and receipts, and ensure expenses are accurately coded.
• Administer monthly allowance payments to individuals living in Helping Hand's CILA residences.
• Maintain the ACH banking template and process updates related to client or banking changes.

• Help maintain accurate and complete financial records.
• Support the development, implementation, and monitoring of accounting procedures and financial processes.
• Assist with daily Finance Department operations, monthly close activities, and year-end processes.
• Prepare financial analyses, reconciliations, schedules, and reports as assigned.
• Perform accounting responsibilities in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, organizational policies, and applicable regulatory requirements.

• Partner with departments throughout Helping Hand to research and resolve accounting questions, discrepancies, and financial concerns.
• Participate in required meetings, training, professional development activities, and agency events.
• Assist with special projects and other related responsibilities as assigned.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate or Bachelor's degree preferred.

• 1-3 years of experience using financial software and performing functions such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger activities, or payroll processing.
• 1-3 years of experience in accounting, preferably in a non-profit environment, particularly a social service agency.