What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Accountant - Programs position at Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago?
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago partners with mission-driven people and organizations across Cook and Lake counties to witness a message of mercy and hope to a world in need by improving lives and nourishing spirits; strengthening and empowering people, families, and communities; and committing to being present to our times through the eyes of faith.
Role Overview
The Staff Accountant - Programs reviews and reconciles financial records for accuracy, compliance, and completeness; supports month-end and year-end closes, audits, reporting, and variance analysis; resolves discrepancies with stakeholders; maintains strong internal controls; and continuously improves accounting processes and professional expertise.
Job Responsibilities
- Review assigned area's files for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with internal policies and external regulatory requirements. Identify and investigate discrepancies or inconsistencies, follow up independently to resolve issues, and provide weekly status updates to stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability.
- Assist with the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes by preparing journal entries, analyzing general ledger accounts, researching payment activity, submitting cash receipts, and compiling supporting documentation. Ensure that all financial data is recorded accurately and in a timely manner to support reliable reporting.
- Conduct financial variance analysis and assist in identifying trends, anomalies, or areas for improvement. Prepare and maintain reports and schedules that support internal decision-making and external reporting requirements. Communicate findings clearly and proactively to leadership and other stakeholders.
- Support the year-end audit process by gathering and organizing backup documentation, preparing audit schedules, and responding to auditor inquiries. Collaborate with finance leadership to ensure that audit requirements are met efficiently and that the organization remains in good standing with external auditors and funders.
- Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders and other accounting staff to resolve financial and operational issues in a professional and timely manner. This includes reconciling credit card transactions, gathering documentation for expenditures, and contributing to the continuous improvement of accounting procedures and internal controls.
- Engage in ongoing learning, training, and skill development, seeking and applying feedback to continuously improve performance and contribute to team and organizational success.
PLEASE NOTE: Essential functions include all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
- Kneel and move from sitting, bending, kneeling, or standing multiple times a day
- Climb up and down up to 3 flights of stairs at a time
- Lift, push, and pull up to 25 lbs
Other Requirements: Comply with program and/or requirements related to:
- Background check
Education and Experience Requirements:
Minimum
- Associate's Degree (AA) in a related field of study 1-3 years relevant experience
- Journal entries and reconciliations, month-end close support, financial reporting, account analysis, ERP basics.
Preferred
- Bachelor's Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in a related field of study 3-5 years relevant experience
- Excel modeling, workflow automation.
Certifications and Licensure
- Preferred CPA or CPA candidate