Senior Staff Accountant - Programs

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago • Chicago, IL

2d

About The Position

The Senior Staff Accountant - Programs provides end‑to‑end accounting support through accurate financial reporting, analysis, reconciliations, and compliance oversight while collaborating with leadership, programs, auditors, and funders to support sound financial decision‑making.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in a related field of study
• 3-5 years relevant experience
• Program expenditure review, journal entries and billings, receivables and revenue reconciliation, audit support, ERP use, Microsoft Office/Excel
• Background check

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in a related field of study
• 5+ years relevant experience
• Cost allocation modeling
• CPA candidate or CPA

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive accounting support to department leadership by managing a wide range of fiscal responsibilities. This includes reviewing and validating program expenditures, preparing and submitting journal entries, deposits, and program billings, and ensuring all financial transactions are completed accurately and in compliance with internal policies, professional standards, and external regulatory requirements.
• Conduct in-depth financial analysis to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement. Prepare detailed financial projections and reports, and communicate findings clearly and proactively to the Department Director, Accounting Manager, Controller, and program staff to support data-driven decision-making and strategic planning.
• Lead the reconciliation of revenue and receivables in the general ledger during the month-end close process. Investigate and resolve discrepancies in accounts, ensure proper documentation is maintained, and prepare necessary adjustments and journal entries to maintain the integrity of financial records. Act as the primary liaison for external funders and auditors, coordinating responses and documentation in collaboration with supervisory staff. Ensure that all audit and funding requirements are met with accuracy and timeliness, and that the organization remains in good standing with all relevant stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with program teams, internal departments, and external partners to address and resolve accounting issues. This includes administering petty cash for assigned programs when applicable, reconciling organizational credit card transactions, gathering supporting documentation, and contributing to the continuous improvement of financial operations 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior