Staff Accountant - GAAP & Grants Specialist

Lesley University; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 82,000 - 93,000; Full time

Job summary

Lesley University in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a detail-oriented Staff Accountant to support core accounting functions and accounts payable in our Finance department.

You will perform balance sheet reconciliations, prepare journal entries in compliance with GAAP, and assist with monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy, internal controls, and audit readiness.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration or related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in grant preparation or grant-related financial support.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel.
• Knowledge of GAAP and internal controls.
• Strong communication and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform balance sheet reconciliations and prepare journal entries.
• Assist with month-end, quarterly, and year-end close processes.
• Support accounts payable, including processing invoices and reconciling vendor statements.
• Collaborate with FP&A and Advancement teams to improve financial reporting.
• Ensure data integrity and support audit readiness.

Skills

Advanced Excel

GAAP knowledge

Grant accounting

Communication skills

Project management

Internal controls

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance/Accounting

Tools

Ellucian Colleague

Job description

Lesley University in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a detail-oriented Staff Accountant to support core accounting functions and accounts payable in our Finance department.

You will perform balance sheet reconciliations, prepare journal entries in compliance with GAAP, and assist with monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy, internal controls, and audit readiness.