Remote Director of Accounting & GAAP (Nonprofit)

The Urban Institute in; Washington (District of Columbia); Remote; USD 116,000 - 207,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

403(b) retirement plan

Job summary

Urban Institute seeks an experienced Accounting Director to join its Controller Department leadership, overseeing comprehensive accounting operations, close processes, and financial reporting in a nonprofit environment.

The role balances hands-on oversight with strategic improvement, ensuring GAAP compliance, internal controls, and audit readiness across government contracts, grants, and federal awards. This position offers potential for remote work and strong collaboration across departments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field; CPA preferred.
• 12+ years progressive accounting experience, with 5+ years in leadership.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial close, GL, reporting.
• Experience supporting annual audits and Single Audit.
• Knowledge of ASC 606/ASC 958 revenue recognition; NICRA a plus.
• Nonprofit accounting experience with federal awards (Uniform Guidance, SEFA).

Responsibilities

• Lead full-cycle accounting operations including close and reconciliations.
• Oversee billing and revenue accounting for contracts and grants.
• Manage accounts payable, payroll accounting, and reporting controls.
• Lead external audit support and SEFA workpapers.
• Develop staff and collaborate across departments to improve processes.
• Identify opportunities to improve ERP, billing, and reporting with automation.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Leadership

Financial analysis

Communication

ERP systems

Excel proficiency

Audit coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting/finance

CPA preferred

Tools

ERP accounting systems

Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Urban Institute seeks an experienced Accounting Director to join its Controller Department leadership, overseeing comprehensive accounting operations, close processes, and financial reporting in a nonprofit environment.

The role balances hands-on oversight with strategic improvement, ensuring GAAP compliance, internal controls, and audit readiness across government contracts, grants, and federal awards. This position offers potential for remote work and strong collaboration across departments.