Senior Accountant - National Academy of Engineering

Job Description

Summary:

Founded in 1964, the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) is a private, independent, nonprofit institution that provides engineering leadership in service to the nation. The NAE advances the welfare and prosperity of the nation by providing independent, objective advice to the U.S. government whenever called upon to do so, and by promoting a vibrant engineering profession and public appreciation of engineering.

The NAE operates within the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, an independent, nonprofit organization chartered by Congress to provide objective analysis and advice to the nation on matters of science, technology, and health. While the National Academies manage administrative, operational, and financial infrastructure across its constituent academies, the NAE also benefits from the dedicated support of the National Academy of Engineering Fund (NAEF) - a separate legal entity established to manage endowments that fund the NAE’s independent work.

The NAEF ensures long-term financial sustainability and provides critical support for strategic initiatives, member engagement, and programs that advance engineering’s role in society. Together, this integrated structure and the flexibility afforded by the NAEF enable the NAE to fulfill its unique mission through a combination of institutional alignment and philanthropic investment.

The selected candidate works as part of a small team to prepare various complex accounting transactions, statements, and reports. Responsible for monthly closes and financial statement preparation. Review and verify the accuracy of journal entries and accounting classifications assigned to various endowment and working funds. Areas of activity may include accounts receivable, accounts payable, cash receipts, investments, general ledger entries, financial report preparation and reconciliation, bank statements, and treasury.

Build relationships within NAE departments as well as with other units in the Academies. Working under general supervision, incumbent applies specific and professional-level knowledge to perform responsibilities requiring the identification and analysis of complex factors to determine best course of action. Use independent judgment and discretion but may receive guidance or expertise from supervisor or higher‑level staff on more complex problems.

Establish processes and/or procedures to ensure the effective and efficient operation of assigned functions. May be a specialist in one or more areas of accounting. Serve as a resource and may provide work leadership to junior staff.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

Accounting Operations and Controls

• Enter all transactions into the Blackbaud Financial Edge system.
• Prepare, review, and approve journal entries, bank transfers, and donor stock gifts, as assigned.
• Set up and maintain accounting records and fiscal controls.
• Reconcile and monitor endowment, program, and working funds in the General Ledger.
• Ensure accounting records are complete, accurate, and compliant with accepted accounting policies and principles.

Financial Reporting and Close

• Process month-end financial statements and ensure timely, accurate financial reporting.
• Manage year-end cash-basis and accrual closings.
• Review and guide monthly reconciliations of asset, liability, revenue, and expense accounts.
• Support the annual independent audit by preparing documentation and responding to auditor requests.
• Identify potential issues or improvement opportunities and recommend practical solutions.

Investment and Cash Management

• Review, analyze, and reconcile monthly or quarterly investment manager statements, including investment performance and current market value.
• Review, analyze, and reconcile NAEF bank accounts.
• Work with the supervisor to expand automation and apply accounting best practices for investment activity.

Customer Support and Process Improvement

• Research and respond to internal and external accounting inquiries.
• Maintain direct communication with internal customers, including program financial management staff, regarding expenses, billing, and financial reporting.
• Create and maintain documentation…