Staff Accountant

Company Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success. With over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color, we exemplify diversity, equity, and inclusion. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

The Staff Accountant position will support the Accounting Manager on all aspects of accounting  functions including, but not limited to month end ledger close and reporting, supporting the accounts  payable/receivable functions of schools or Home Office, preparing materials for the annual audit  process and working closely with the Finance team. The Staff Accountant will work closely with the  members of the team to ensure accurate recording of the financial operations of the organization and  assist with team initiatives and projects as needed. Regular communication with school-based staff  handling multiple school locations (for Home Office-communicate with HO departments).

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Manage accounting functions for the multiple schools within the Uncommon Schools organization
• Maintain financial record keeping and reporting systems
• Oversee receivables, payables, cash receipts, and cash disbursements transactions
• Ensure accurate recording of transactions in the general ledger and make adjusting entries as needed
• Produce accrual based accurate and timely monthly financial statements including balance sheets, profit/loss statements, and transaction reports
• Review donations and grants received and record applying non-profit accounting rules as needed
• Prepare and post journal entries including monthly and yearly closing entries
• Prepare monthly bank reconciliations and follow up on unusual items
• Perform monthly ledger closing and reconcile ledger accounts 
• Prepare information and provide support to outside accountants for 990 filing
• Prepare accounting records and workpapers for annual audit 
• Maintain fixed asset and associated depreciation schedules 
• Maintain monthly rent and lease schedules and updated on an annual basis or as needed per contracted terms 
• Maintain and enforce Uncommon’s fiscal policies and procedures and other internal guidelines
• Conduct research required for strategic team initiatives, special projects, and other special requests
• Perform various accounting, administrative and other related duties as assigned and required by the  role 

Qualifications

Required Skills & Abilities: 

• In-depth understanding of accounting principles
• Strong ability to read, understand, and identify issues in financial statements 
• Experience with accounting systems. (Work Day preferred)
• Experience working in a multi-site organization preferred 
• Skilled in use of MS Excel 
• Proficient in MS Office Suite  
• Strong communication skills; written and verbal 
• Focused, keen attention to detail and follow-through 
• Strong organization, time management and work prioritization skills 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to work well on a team and participate in team initiatives and projects 
• Ability to work autonomously, as well as take direction as needed  

Education Requirements: 

• Undergraduate Degree in Accounting or related area

Experience Requirements: 

• Minimum 2-3 years of accounting experience (non-profit organization a plus)
• Knowledge of non-profit accounting rules applicable to donations and grants received (a plus)
• Experience in K-12 public education preferred.

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $67,300-$79,200. 

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant professional experience, education, certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. If you meet all job description requirements you will likely receive an offer between $67,300 to $71,300. 

Benefits

• 19 days of paid time off
• 3 weeks of paid Winter and Summer org-wide holidays
• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans
• 403(b) retirement savings program + employer match
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits
• Pre-tax flexible spending, dependent care, and health saving accounts

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE.

Uncommon believes in the importance of being a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization that enables our students and staff to thrive. We are committed to building an exceptional team that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our students. We also strive to ensure an inclusive community by creating a space for meaningful dialogue about issues of race and identity for our staff and students. As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email recruitment@uncommonschools.org.