The New York Climate Exchange (The Exchange) is a new not-for-profit climate solutions center designed to build community, foster collaboration, advance climate knowledge, and empower marginalized communities through cross-disciplinary networking, impactful programming, and cutting-edge facilities. While The Exchange will have a physical presence on Governors Island, its spirit and influence will extend beyond the Island into New York City and across the country and world. Our diverse coalition of partners—committed and prepared to collectively disrupt the status quo—incorporates local and global perspectives on climate change from academia, the private sector, and community-level organizations. As the first of its kind, The Exchange will unlock integrated and scalable approaches to sustainability, ultimately serving as a global model for sustainable positive change.

The New York Climate Exchange (“The Exchange”) seeks to recruit a Finance Specialist to play a pivotal role in bolstering the financial infrastructure of our organization. The Specialist will be instrumental in managing budgeting, accounting, accounts payable and vendor management, financial reporting, and various other essential financial facets. 

Applicants should feel comfortable working independently in a fast-paced, start-up environment with tasks and roles changing on a regular basis. This position is full-time. The individual filling this role will primarily work in-person in the New York City area. Periodic remote work is allowed with prior approval. 

The position reports to the Director of Administration and Finance. 

Salary and Benefits 

Salary for the Finance Specialist is between $75,000-$100,000 per year. The position includes eligibility for generous health and retirement benefits, and paid time off/sick leave. 

Salary will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to qualifications, experience, education, licenses, and specialized training. The above hiring range represents The Exchange’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Responsibilities 

Working closely with the Director of Finance and Administration, the Finance Specialist will undertake the following responsibilities: 

1. Assist in financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes. 

1. Manage day-to-day financial operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll. 

1. Conduct financial analysis to support decision-making and strategic planning. 

1. Prepare financial reports, statements, and presentations for management and stakeholders. 

1. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies. 

1. Collaborate with other internal teams to streamline financial processes and improve efficiency. 

1. Assist in audits and tax filings as needed. 

Position-related Qualifications 

1. Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., CPA, CFA) preferred. 

1. Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in finance or accounting roles, preferably in a nonprofit or environmental organization. 

1. Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Excel. Experience with QuickBooks or similar accounting software is a plus. 

1. Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy. 

1. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. 

1. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment. 

1. Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks effectively. 

1. Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. 

New York Climate Exchange Staff Core Competencies 

• Develops and implements solutions that show understanding of how partners and/or own work achieves results that are financially, environmentally, and socially sustainable. 

• Shares new insights based on in-depth understanding of clients/partners and recommends solutions for current and future needs of clients/partners. 

• Initiates collaboration across boundaries and broadly across The Exchange, partner organizations, and other relevant institutions. 

• Makes choices and sets priorities with The New York Climate Exchange corporate perspective in mind. 

• Helps others to understand problems, partner and client needs, and the underlying context. 

• Recognizes the value of diverse perspectives and lived experiences and applies a critical lens to systemic sources of bias and discrimination.

• Applies critical thinking and seeks input and experience from others to recommend a course of action consistent with The Exchange’s strategy. 

• Evaluates risk and anticipates the short- and long-term implications of decisions. 

• Commits to a decision and acts once it has been reached. 

Preferred consideration will be given to applications received no later than May 24, 2024. 

The New York Climate Exchange 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, height, weight, 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.

Note: Research indicates that men tend to apply for jobs when they meet just 60% of the criteria, while women and people from other marginalized groups only apply if they are a 100% match. If you are passionate about our mission and think you have what it takes to be successful in this role even if you don’t check all the boxes, please apply. We’d appreciate the opportunity to consider your application. 

You must be able to work in the United States as The Exchange does not yet have visa-sponsoring capabilities.