Fiscal Specialist

Job Location

Michigan City, IN 46360

The Fiscal Specialist is responsible for daily financial operations of the Head Start program, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and organizational requirements. This role oversees budgeting, expenditure monitoring, financial reporting, and grant compliance while supporting program leadership in financial planning and decision‑making.

• Successful drug screening.
• Successful physical capacities examination and TB screen results.
• Criminal history background clearance.

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant financial experience.

Preferred

• Degree concentration in Accounting.
• 5+ years of experience in nonprofit or government‑funded programs.
• Experience with federal grants.
• Familiarity with Net Suite or similar ERP system, Payment Management System, and Central Authentication Service.

• Ensure compliance with 2 CFR Part 200 (Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements) and Head Start Performance Standards.
• Maintain internal controls to safeguard funds, property, and assets.
• Ensure all costs are allowable, allocable, reasonable, and properly documented.
• Monitor adherence to organizational and program fiscal policies and procedures.
• Monitor program budgets and expenditures to ensure alignment with approved grant funding.
• Review and verify invoices, purchase orders, and supporting documentation.
• Conduct budget‑to‑actual analyses and financial forecasts.
• Assist with annual budget development and grant applications, including amendments.
• Prepare, review, and/or submit required federal and internal financial reports, including:
  • SF‑425 (Federal Financial Report)
  • SF‑428 (Tangible Personal Property Report)
  • SF‑429 (Real Property Report)
• Maintain accurate financial records and documentation to support audits and monitoring reviews.
• Track and report Non‑Federal Match (In‑Kind contributions).
• Coordinate with the Paladin, Inc. accounting department to request and manage drawdowns from PMS.
• Maintain an inventory of items purchased with federal and grant funds.
• Ensure compliance with federal property management requirements.
• Partner with leadership on strategic planning and financial decision‑making.
• Participate in administrative and leadership meetings.
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure fiscal alignment with program goals.
• Support program‑wide compliance efforts, including safety and operational standards.
• Assist in ensuring compliance with emergency procedures, safety protocols, and facility requirements.
• Perform all duties in a safe, professional, and ethical manner.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with staff and leadership.
• Support the overall success of the Head Start program.
• Perform other duties as assigned.