Senior Accountant

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Senior Accountant

Division/Department: Business Office

Reports to: Controller

 Direct Reports

Location: Chadwick School, Palos Verdes Peninsula        

Type of position/FLSA: Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY

The Senior Accountant is a key member of the Business Office team, responsible for maintaining the school’s financial records in accordance with fund accounting principles and supporting the Controller in all aspects of financial reporting, budgeting, and audit preparation. This role will supervise the Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable Specialists to ensure accurate and timely processing of transactions and maintenance of internal controls. The position requires a strong understanding of nonprofit fund accounting and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced K–12 school environment.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Accounting & Reporting

• Maintain and reconcile the general ledger, ensuring proper classification and accuracy of all fund transactions.
• Prepare monthly and year-end financial statements and internal management reports.
• Record and reconcile journal entries including payroll, investment activity, depreciation, and accruals.
• Manage fund balances, ensuring accurate tracking and compliance with donor restrictions and board designations.

Supervision & Oversight

• Supervise and support the AP and AR Specialists, ensuring timely and accurate processing of invoices, payments, receipts, and billing.
• Review and approve AP batches, check runs, and AR postings.
• Provide training, guidance, and performance feedback to direct reports.
• Ensure adherence to internal controls and accounting policies in daily transaction processing.

Fund Accounting & Donor Reporting

• Monitor and reconcile all restricted, temporarily restricted, and unrestricted funds.
• Coordinate with the Advancement/Development Office to ensure accurate recording of contributions and pledges.
• Prepare reports for grant and endowment tracking and compliance.

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Assist in the development of the annual operating and capital budgets.
• Monitor departmental spending against budget and assist department heads with budget-to-actual reports.
• Support forecasting and scenario planning as needed.

Audit & Compliance

• Prepare audit schedules and support all aspects of the annual financial statement audit and IRS Form 990.
• Maintain documentation and ensure compliance with GAAP, internal policies, and nonprofit accounting standards.
• Participate in the periodic review and enhancement of internal controls and financial procedures.

Additional Duties

• Assist in tuition and fee reconciliation and financial aid accounting.
• Support other business office functions, including reporting to the Board of Trustees and school leadership.
• Perform special projects and other duties as assigned by the Controller or CFO.