Senior Grants Accountant-Finance

Reports To: Senior Director of Grants and Finance (with close coordination and guidance from the Vice President of Finance)

FLSA Status: Exempt

Salary range: $72,000 to $84,000

Position Summary:

The Senior Grants Accountant is responsible for supporting the financial oversight, reporting, and compliance functions associated with American Councils’ portfolio of U.S. Government and privately funded grants. Reporting to the Senior Director of Grants and Finance, and working closely with the Vice President of Finance, the Senior Grants Accountant collaborates with program and finance teams to ensure the accuracy, compliance, and timeliness of grant-related financial processes.

This position is ideal for a detail-oriented, mission-driven professional with a strong background in government grants and a solid understanding of 2 CFR Part 200. The Senior Grants Accountant will play a key role in ensuring the organization’s financial practices align with internal controls and donor requirements and will contribute to improving processes that strengthen fiscal accountability.

Responsibilities:

Grants Management and Compliance

• Prepare and maintain financial reports for U.S. Government and private funders in coordination with program staff
• Monitor grant budgets and spending to ensure alignment with award terms and cost principles under 2 CFR Part 200
• Track and document cost share commitments and ensure accurate reporting
• Review financial documentation for subrecipients and subcontractors to ensure compliance and timely submissions
• Maintain complete and audit-ready records for each grant and subrecipient
• Assist in the preparation of budgets and budget modifications for new and continuing grant proposal 

Billing and Financial Reporting

• Prepare and submit quarterly financial reports and funder billing packets in accordance with grant agreements
• Reconcile expenditures with internal accounting systems to ensure consistency and accuracy
• Support internal grant closeout procedures and contribute to external audit preparation

Internal Collaboration and Communication

• Serve as a liaison between the Finance Office and Program Teams to ensure alignment on financial deliverables
• Provide guidance and training to junior finance or program staff as needed on grant-related processes
• Contribute to the ongoing development of grant financial procedures and internal controls
• Participate in special projects and initiatives under the direction of Finance leadership

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; Master’s degree or CPA preferred
• Minimum 5 years of experience in nonprofit finance or grant financial management
• Strong understanding of federal regulations related to grants, including 2 CFR Part 200
• Proficiency in Excel and accounting software (e.g., Business Central, or similar ERP systems)
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines

Preferred Attributes:

• Experience working with subrec