Manager, Grants Accounting

Aspire Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

13 Paid Holidays

403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with Em

Disability Insurance

Life Insurance

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Pet Insurance

Job summary

Aspire Chicago is seeking a Manager, Grants Accounting to serve as the organization's lead resource for compliance and audit requirements related to externally funded programs. You will ensure federal, state, and local grant funds are managed responsibly and in full compliance, partnering with program directors and cross-functional teams.

The role emphasizes mission-driven work, integrity, accountability, and teamwork, with responsibilities spanning grant compliance, audits, reporting, training,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• At least 3 years of grants administration, audit, or compliance in nonprofit or government.
• Strong knowledge of federal grant regulations, including OMB guidance and 2 CFR Part 200.
• Experience preparing for audits and working with internal controls.
• Proficiency in financial management systems and advanced Microsoft Excel.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
• CPA, CGAP or similar professional certifications a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee grant activities to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including 2 CFR Part 200 and other applicable requirements.
• Maintain and update the organization’s Grant Manual and compliance protocols.
• Monitor grant deadlines, reporting schedules, and required documentation across all funding sources.
• Partner with program staff to support compliant grant implementation and administration.
• Prepare documentation and schedules for external financial and grant-related audits.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for auditors regarding grant compliance matters.
• Coordinate responses to audit inquiries and provide supporting documentation and explanations as needed.
• Address audit findings and implement corrective actions to strengthen future compliance.
• Conduct periodic internal audits in collaboration with the Controller.

Skills

Excel

Grants compliance

Audit experience

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field

Tools

Finance software

Job description

Description

Steward Resources. Strengthen Communities. Advance Mission.

About Aspire

Since 1960, Aspire has been creating boundless opportunities for people with disabilities. We believe in working together to pursue greater possibilities, foster meaningful connections, and build communities where everyone belongs. Every member of our team plays a role in advancing this mission!

The Role

The Manager, Grants Accounting serves as the organization’s lead resource for compliance and audit requirements related to externally funded programs, particularly government grants. Working closely with Program Directors and cross-functional teams, this position ensures that federal, state, and local grant funds are managed responsibly, accurately, and in full compliance with applicable regulations.

This role is ideal for a finance and compliance professional who is passionate about supporting mission-driven work through strong fiscal stewardship, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a purpose-driven environment and values integrity, accountability, and teamwork.

• PLEASE NOTE: Direct experience supporting or leading a Single Audit under Uniform Guidance / 2 CFR Part 200 is required for this role.

What You’ll Do

Manage Grant Compliance & Monitoring

• Oversee grant activities to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including 2 CFR Part 200 and other applicable requirements.
• Maintain and update the organization’s Grant Manual and compliance protocols.
• Monitor grant deadlines, reporting schedules, and required documentation across all funding sources.
• Partner with program staff to support compliant grant implementation and administration.

Support Audit Preparation & Compliance

• Prepare documentation and schedules for external financial and grant-related audits.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for auditors regarding grant compliance matters.
• Coordinate responses to audit inquiries and provide supporting documentation and explanations as needed.
• Address audit findings and implement corrective actions to strengthen future compliance.
• Conduct periodic internal audits in collaboration with the Controller.

Manage Financial Reporting & Documentation

• Prepare and submit timely financial reports, reimbursement requests, and expense claims to government agencies and funders.
• Maintain organized and accurate grant records, including budgets, expenditures, modifications, and agency communications.
• Ensure all financial documentation aligns with grant requirements and internal controls.

Provide Training & Cross-Functional Support

• Provide guidance and training to program and finance staff on grant compliance, documentation standards, and allowable costs.
• Support departments in developing compliant grant budgets and financial practices.
• Promote organization-wide understanding of grants management best practices.

Support Policy Development & Process Improvement

• Collaborate with senior leadership to strengthen policies related to grants administration, audit readiness, and compliance.
• Review and improve grant management processes to minimize risk and enhance operational efficiency.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field required
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in grants administration, audit, or compliance, preferably within a nonprofit or government environment
• Strong knowledge of federal grant regulations, including OMB guidance and 2 CFR Part 200
• Experience preparing for audits and working with internal controls
• Proficiency in financial management systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills
• Valid driver’s license and consistently clean driving record required
• CPA, CGAP, or similar professional certifications a plus

Who You Are

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
• High ethical standards and commitment to compliance
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to collaborate across departments and support a variety of teams

Why Join Us?

Our organization is deeply committed to creating positive change in the communities we serve. We value collaboration, accountability, and innovation, and we believe strong financial stewardship is essential to advancing our mission.

Full-Time Benefits

(for employees regularly scheduled to work 37.5+ hours per week)

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Options
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time)
• 13 Paid Holidays
• 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Match
• Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Pet Insurance

Ready to Make an Impact?

Salary Description

$70,000 - $85,000 annual