Staff Accountant

International Association of Insurance Professionals (IAIP); Chicago, Northern (IL, KY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Anti-Cruelty is seeking a Staff Accountant to manage general accounting functions under the VP of Finance. The role emphasizes GAAP compliance, nonprofit reporting, and detailed financial analysis to support internal and external stakeholders.

The candidate will prepare general ledger entries, perform reconciliations, and assist with audits and year-end reporting while maintaining organized records and supporting payroll and system updates.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit accounting
• Proficiency with Excel and reporting tools
• Experience with Sage Intacct or similar ERP
• Attention to detail and accuracy in financial records
• Ability to work with cross-functional teams and deadlines

Responsibilities

• Prepare and post general ledger entries ensuring GAAP compliance
• Monthly bank, credit card, and balance sheet reconciliations
• Compile monthly financial statements and variance analyses
• Support external audits with schedules and documentation
• Process accounts payable and receivable and maintain vendor and donor records
• Assist with payroll processing and system updates
• Prepare year-end financial reports and tax documents
• Maintain organized filing systems (physical and digital)

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Excel proficiency

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

2-3 years in nonprofit accounting

Tools

Sage Intacct

Bill.com

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Under the direct supervision of the V.P. of Finance, the Staff Accountant is responsible for managing general accounting functions to support the financial operations of Anti-Cruelty. This role requires strong analytical skills and attention to detail to ensure accurate financial records and compliance with GAAP accounting standards.

The Staff Accountant will work collaboratively with the finance team and other departments to maintain the integrity of our financial systems and provide timely reporting for internal and external stakeholders.

Creating an inclusive and welcoming culture is central to our work. As outlined in our PETS Work Culture Agreement, we uphold Praise, Engagement, Trust, and Support in all interactions.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Uphold the PETS Work Culture Agreement

Financial Record Keeping and Reporting

• Prepare and post general ledger entries, ensuring accuracy and adherence to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Reconcile bank statements, credit card accounts, and balance sheet accounts on a monthly basis
• Prepare and compile monthly financial statements and variance analysis reports
• Support the audit process by organizing documentation and preparing schedules as needed
• Maintain detailed records of financial transactions, including invoices, receipts, and supporting documentation

Month-End and Year-End Closing

• Execute month-end closing procedures, including journal entries, accruals, and reconciliations
• Participate in quarterly and annual financial close processes
• Prepare balance sheet and income statement adjustments
• Assist with the preparation of year-end financial reports and tax documentation

Accounts Payable and Receivable

• Process vendor invoices for payment and maintain vendor files
• Monitor accounts payable aging reports and follow up on overdue items
• Track and record grants, donations, and other revenue sources
• Reconcile accounts receivable and follow up on outstanding invoices

Compliance and Special Projects

• Monitor compliance with nonprofit accounting regulations and donor requirements
• Track and record donor-restricted funds and grant spending in accordance with grant agreements
• Support the development and improvement of accounting procedures and internal controls
• Assist with budget preparation and analysis
• Perform ad hoc financial analysis and research as requested by the Finance Director or Executive Director
• Maintain organized filing systems (both physical and digital)

General Accounting Functions

• Assist with payroll processing and verification
• Support the accounting system, including data entry and system updates
• Process expense reimbursements and employee advances
• Maintain spreadsheets for tracking fixed assets, loans, and other accounts

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Proficiency with accounting software (Sage Intacct, Bill.com or similar platforms)
• Strong Excel skills and ability to create reports and spreadsheets
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Professional communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• High level of accuracy and commitment to quality work
• Basic understanding of nonprofit accounting and tax-exempt status compliance
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Advanced mathematical and accounting knowledge
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Ability to manage confidential financial information with integrity
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Commitment to the mission and values of nonprofit organizations
• Ability to explain financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders
• Project management capabilities
• Professional judgment and discretion

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field, and/or a combination of education and work experience (2-3 years in non-profit accounting roles)
• 1 year of previous experience in an animal related field preferred

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience working in a nonprofit organization
• Experience with grant accounting and tracking donor-restricted funds
• Familiarity with nonprofit financial reporting requirements
• Experience with accounting systems such as Sage or similar enterprise software
• Strong knowledge of internal controls and audit procedures
• Experience preparing financial statements for external reporting

Note: a comparable combination of education, experience or training that would provide a level of knowledge, skills, and ability may qualify individuals.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work in all weather conditions.
• Ability to work in an open-office environment.
• Ability to handle work around all companion animals.
• Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop and reach.
• Ability to be comfortable working with cats, dogs, small animals, reptiles, fish and wildlife.
• Due to nature of shelter work, may be exposed to deceased, fractious, or aggressive animals; hostile or irate persons; zoonotic or other diseases; unpleasant noises, odors, or sights; and extreme temperatures.

The job description is a guide to the essential functions of the job, not an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, qualifications, physical demands, and work environment conditions. Job descriptions are reviewed and revised to meet the changing needs of the organization at the sole discretion of management.

Anti-Cruelty is an equal opportunity employer.