Federal Grants Finance Leader — Compliance & Budgets

Column Technical Services; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Column Technical Services is seeking a Grant Financial Leader in Chicago, IL to oversee the full financial lifecycle of federal grants, ensure compliance with federal regulations, and guide program teams. This role leads financial reporting, budgeting, audits, and sub-recipient monitoring while upholding all federal and organizational standards.

This role follows a hybrid schedule, requiring three days per week on site in the Chicago office. We are considering local applicants only.

Qualifications

• At least five years of experience in nonprofit accounting.
• Minimum of ten years of progressive accounting or finance experience.
• Strong ability to provide clear direction, respond to inquiries, and communicate effectively.
• High attention to detail with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage confidential information responsibly.
• Flexible, accurate, and able to adapt to changing priorities.
• Excellent written communication skills and ability to engage across various settings.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the financial framework and compliance processes for all federal grants, including the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP).
• Reviews and approves all grant-related invoices, ensuring proper coding and authorization.
• Partners with Project Directors to develop annual grant budgets and monitors spending.
• Tracks and verifies time allocation reports for federal program staff.
• Prepares and submits all required federal financial reports, including quarterly and final Financial Status Reports.
• Manages reimbursement requests to federal agencies and coordinates payments to sub-grantees.
• Collaborates with the Finance Department on month-end processes and grant-related accounting.
• Supports Project Directors with budget planning, year-end projections, and contract documentation.
• Leads preparation of audit documentation for the Single Audit and Schedule of Federal Awards.

Skills

Nonprofit accounting

Financial reporting

Grant management

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting or related field

CPA or MBA preferred

Tools

Windows

Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Email

Internet tools

NetSuite

Job description

Column Technical Services is seeking a Grant Financial Leader in Chicago, IL to oversee the full financial lifecycle of federal grants, ensure compliance with federal regulations, and guide program teams. This role leads financial reporting, budgeting, audits, and sub-recipient monitoring while upholding all federal and organizational standards.

This role follows a hybrid schedule, requiring three days per week on site in the Chicago office. We are considering local applicants only.