Accounting Manager

The Fund for Science and Technology is a new private foundation that is part of the Paul G. Allen philanthropic ecosystem. Founded in 2022 and launched in 2025, we enable accelerated discovery and catalyze progress for people and the planet through transformational science and technology. The foundation works to advance bioscience, accelerate solutions for the environment, and leverage the power of AI for the benefit of people and planet.

Together, we strive to advance the frontiers of science and maximize the benefits it offers the world.

Play a pivotal role in building high-impact teams in support of the Foundation’s mission. Collaborate across functions and influence organizational design, DEI, and culture.

Thrive in a mission-centric workplace that values diversity, creativity, and accountability.

We are seeking an Accounting Manager to lead all day-to-day accounting and payroll functions. This position requires proactive interaction across the foundation as well as precise, detailed, hands-on work. This role directs the work and coordinates the compilation and maintenance of the accounting records and financial reports. This role will have the opportunity to shape policies and will have end-to-end ownership of the accounting systems in our dynamic and growing foundation.

This position has access to and regularly works with sensitive, highly confidential, and strategic information that requires considerable discretion, independent judgment, and tact. It also requires a professional attitude and strong interpersonal communication skills.

• Supervise complex accounting projects and manage accounting staff.
• Maintain the general ledger, including month-end account reconciliations and closing, and preparation of monthly financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Use judgment and strong professional skills to determine the appropriate procedures for preparing accounting records, researching transactions and reporting. Provide guidance to less experienced staff on appropriate accounting treatment.
• Ensure timely and accurate reconciliation of foundation assets, grant disbursements, and operational expenditures.
• Function as primary point of contact for annual financial statement audit, including preparation of audit schedules and drafting financial statements.
• Provide functional expertise and guidance to staff for accounting systems and software applications.
• Assist in resource planning and perform hiring for the accounting department.
• Provide mentoring, guidance and training to develop the accounting staff.
• Assist in determining accounting policies and procedures and maintaining the documentation of those policies and procedures. Identify opportunities for process and procedure improvements.
• Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements and other reports to be used by management. Design and format reports and assist senior accounting staff in determining the type of information to be included in reports.
• Process bi-weekly payroll ensuring accurate handling of time, earnings, leave, deductions, benefits, and taxes for employees residing in various states.
• Support payroll training for staff and provide responsive assistance with payroll questions.
• Research, test, and resolve payroll tax issues with the IRS and state or local jurisdictions, including registering new local and state tax accounts as needed.
• Ensure timely and accurate W-2 preparation and review wage data submissions to state and local governments.
• Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and year-end reporting by payroll company, including ESD, L&I, and 941.
• Prepare 990-PF tax schedules and direct accounting staff in the preparation of basic schedules. Apply knowledge of tax rules to assist the tax accountants to prepare tax returns.
• Implement and interpret the financial policies and procedures of the company. Bring inconsistencies and problems to the attention of senior management.
• Communicate independently with other company personnel and contacts outside the company. Supervise accounting staff in these communications.
• Work…