Grants Accountant (55453)

YSS•Ames, IA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Where precision powers possibility. YSS is looking for a detail-driven, mission-minded Grants Accountant to join our team! At YSS, every dollar tells a story—and in this role, you help make sure that story is accurate, compliant, and aligned with the life-changing work happening across our programs. You’ll partner closely with program and finance teams to manage grant funding from start to finish, ensuring resources are used effectively to support youth and families across Iowa. This is a role for someone who loves precision, thrives on organization, and understands that behind every spreadsheet is real impact. This isn’t just about balancing books—it’s about backing the work that changes lives. Your accuracy helps ensure programs stay funded, compliant, and strong.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
2+ years of accounting experience, preferably including grants financial management
Advanced proficiency with accounting systems
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word
Strong understanding of budgeting, financial reporting, and reconciliation processes
Embrace YSS core values - Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a ’Can Do’ Spirit.

Nice To Haves

High attention to detail with a strong sense of accuracy and accountability
Grant or fund accounting experience
Familiarity with federal, state, or private grant compliance requirements
Experience in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations
You stay organized, juggle multiple priorities, and keep work moving—even when deadlines stack up
You dig into issues, connect the dots, and communicate solutions clearly
You translate complex financial information into clear, usable insight for others
You collaborate naturally across teams and departments
You manage funds and processes with resourcefulness, care, and consistency
You stay calm, focused, and solutions-oriented in a fast-paced environment
Is driven by purpose, equity, inclusion, and meaningful community impact
Brings humility, cultural awareness, and respect to every interaction
Is collaborative, dependable, and energized by mission-driven work

Responsibilities

Manage full-cycle financial tracking, reporting, and compliance for assigned grants and contracts
Monitor budgets, expenditures, reimbursements, and fund drawdowns for accuracy and proper allocation
Prepare financial reports, reconciliations, and tracking tools for internal teams and external funders
Maintain accurate ledger coding, expense allocation, and audit-ready grant files
Reconcile grant activity, identify variances, and complete journal entries as needed
Support budget development, revisions, adjustments, and grant closeout processes
Partner with program and finance teams to ensure compliant spending and documentation
Provide insight into spending trends, issues, and compliance concerns
Ensure timely and accurate reporting and submission of grant revisions
Support audits and maintain organized, complete documentation