Staff Accountant Finance

Urban League of Essex County; Newark, Northern (NJ, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Urban League of Essex County in Newark, NJ is seeking a Staff Accountant to support financial operations, manage accounts payable and receivable, and assist with grant and contract reporting. The role is in-office and full-time.

Qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field and 1–3 years of accounting experience, preferably in nonprofit settings. Strong GAAP knowledge and attention to detail are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 1–3 years of accounting experience, preferably in nonprofit or grant-funded org.
• Working knowledge of GAAP and fund accounting.

Responsibilities

• Record daily financial transactions (AP/AR as needed) and reconcile accounts.
• Prepare monthly financial statements and internal management reports.
• Track grant revenues/expenses and prepare grant reimbursements.
• Maintain audit-ready grant and contract files.
• Support process improvements and ad hoc analyses.

Skills

Attention to detail

GAAP knowledge

Fund accounting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting/Finance

Tools

MIP Fund Accounting

Job description

Location: 508 Central Avenue, Newark, NJ
Hours: Full-Time; Monday – Friday; 9am – 5pm (in office)
Salary: $60,000 – $65,000 plus benefits
Reports To: Controller
Position Posted: 8/6/26 until filled

Basic Functions:

The Staff Accountant supports the financial operations of the Urban League of Essex County (ULEC) by maintaining accurate financial records, processing transactions, and assisting with grant and contract reporting. The ideal candidate has a strong attention to detail, knowledge in accounts payable and receivable transactions/ processes, and the ability to prepare grant reimbursement financial reports in compliance with funder and organizational requirements. The position offers an opportunity to grow within a mission-driven organization and gain experience in nonprofit financial management and grant accounting.

Responsibilities:

General Accounting

• Assist with recording daily financial transactions, including accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR) when needed.
• Reconcile bank accounts, credit cards, and other balance sheet accounts monthly.
• Assist with journal entries and month-end close processes.
• Support preparation of monthly financial statements and internal management reports.

Grant & Contract Accounting

• Track grant-related revenues and expenses, ensuring compliance with funder restrictions.
• Prepare grant reimbursement requests and financial reports for submission to funding agencies.
• Collaborate with program staff to ensure proper coding of grant expenses and accurate cost allocations.
• Maintain detailed, audit-ready, grant and contract files.

Additional Responsibilities

• Participate in process improvement initiatives to strengthen accounting efficiency and accuracy.
• Support the Controller and leadership team with ad hoc analysis and projects.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• 1-3 years of accounting experience, preferably in a non-profit or grant-funded organization.
• Working knowledge of GAAP and fund accounting principles.

Skills & Competencies

• Experience with accounting software; MIP Fund Accounting Software experience is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills.
• Able to perform transactional tasks (AP/AR) while also supporting higher-level accounting work.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the Urban League of Essex County.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA):

The Urban League of Essex County (ULEC) will provide applicants and employees with reasonable accommodation for disabilities or religious beliefs. If you require reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact our HR Department at [phone] Ext 220

The Urban League of Essex County is an Affionative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer.

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