Grants Accountant

Title: Grant Accountant

Reports To: Grants and Contracts Financial Manager 

Department: Finance

Location: Oakland, CA

Schedule: Monday through Friday 

Travel: Local travel may be required 

Employee Status: Regular, Full-Time, Non-Exempt 

Union: N/A

Supervises: N/A

Benefits

Two weeks of paid vacation a year, sick time, 14 holidays, up to five floating holidays based on employee status, medical and dental benefits on the first of the month following 30 days of employment, life insurance policy at no cost to employee (with the option of increasing policy amount), flexible spending account for medical and dependent care costs, commuter benefits, 403(b) with employer match, and other benefits. We foster a joyful workplace and offer opportunities for professional development and growth. 

Agency Summary 

The Unity Council is a non-profit Social Equity Development Corporation with an over 60-year history in the Fruitvale neighborhood of Oakland. Our mission is to promote social equity and improve quality of life by building vibrant communities where everyone can work, learn, and thrive. 

Our programs aim to provide the community with the tools, knowledge, and resources to transform their lives and ultimately achieve their long-term educational, career, and financial goals. These holistic programs and services reach more than 10,000 individuals and families annually in five languages. Programs include early childhood education, youth mentorship and leadership development, employment services, career readiness training, housing and financial stability, senior citizen services, affordable housing and neighborhood development, and arts and cultural events. Our work expands beyond the Fruitvale district and now reaches across Oakland and into Contra Costa County. The Unity Council employs a diverse workforce of more than 300 people who reflect the linguistic, cultural, and ethnic identity of the communities we serve. 

Position Summary

By effectively managing grant funds, the Grant Accountant ensures that the organization can continue to deliver on its mission while maintaining the trust of funders and stakeholders. Their work supports the sustainability of programs and enables the organization to pursue additional funding opportunities with confidence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

Grant Billing & Invoicing

• Prepare and submit invoices in accordance with funder agreements, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Track billing schedules and maintain detailed records of submitted invoices and corresponding payments.

Compliance & Regulatory Oversight

• Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local grant guidelines, including the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200).
• Monitor grant expenditures to confirm they align with approved budgets and are allowable under grant terms.

Record Maintenance & Documentation

• Maintain organized records of grant agreements, amendments, financial reports, and supporting documentation.
• Track and document cost-sharing requirements, ensuring commitments are fulfilled and properly recorded.

Financial Transactions & Adjustments

• Reallocate costs between grants or contracts as necessary, preparing appropriate journal entries.
• Monitor and track administrative costs for grants requiring detailed reporting, ensuring billing aligns with maximum allowable amounts per agreement.

Audit Preparation & Support

• Assist in the preparation of audit schedules and provide necessary documentation and support during annual audits, specifically related to grants.
• Address auditor inquiries and implement recommended improvements to grant accounting processes.

Budget Monitoring & Reporting 

• Collaborate with program managers to develop and monitor grant budgets, ensuring funds are utilized appropriately.
• Prepare and distribute monthly reports comparing actual revenues and expenses against budgeted figures for assigned grants.
• Identify and address any discrepancies or unallowable costs in grant expenditures.

Qualifications

• Educational Background: Associate’s degree in accounting or work experience equivalent.
• Experience: At least one year in grant accounting or two years in general nonprofit financial management.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with accounting software (e.g., Sage Intacct, MIP Fund Accounting) and advanced Excel skills.
• Knowledge Base: Strong understanding of fund accounting principles and grant compliance requirements.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able climb stairs, reach, bend, lift 20-30 pounds, crawl, kneel, stoop, twist, grasp with hands and fingers materials, use arms and legs, able to walk, climb ladders if applicable. 
• Regularly required to sit for long periods of time, and occasionally stand and walk; 
• Regularly required to use hands to operate computer and other office equipment; 
• Close vision required for computer use.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Background/fingerprints
• Reference Checks

*** Please submit your cover letter and resume. ***

The Unity Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer.