Project/Grant Accountant

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development services. The organization is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its values. CRS has a mission-driven culture focused on improving the lives of the poor globally, and it employs a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The Project/Grant Accountant will play a crucial role in coordinating and implementing the THRIVE Project policies and procedures in alignment with CRS’ accounting standards, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and donor regulations. This position involves performing essential accounting services, documenting financial transactions for the ACROSS Project, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. The accountant will be responsible for compiling, analyzing, and verifying account information, preparing account entries, and delivering financial reporting services throughout the project/grant lifecycle. Depending on the project/grant portfolio, the accountant may focus on either payable or receivable transactions, ensuring that all financial activities are conducted efficiently and accurately.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project/Grant Accountant include setting and monitoring sound accounting and financial reporting procedures for ACROSS project subrecipients and partners, ensuring the setup and maintenance of data required for processing financial transactions in the Insight financial accounting package. The accountant will review and validate supporting documentation before processing transactions, record financial transactions following appropriate authorizations, and analyze accounts to detect irregularities. Additionally, the accountant will advise on corrective actions, prepare correcting entries, assess subrecipient financial management processes, monitor disbursement schedules, prepare periodic and ad hoc financial reports, assist with budget maintenance, and provide training on financial accounting policies. The accountant will also perform treasury duties and any other tasks assigned by the Deputy Head of Finance and the ACROSS Program Manager.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, economics, or business administration with courses in accounting, or a qualification in accounting such as CPA, ACCA, or ICAN. A Master’s degree in accounting or finance is preferred. Candidates should possess excellent analytical skills, proficiency in MS Office packages, and the ability to work collaboratively in diverse teams. Knowledge of public donor regulations and ERP financial accounting packages is preferred, along with a strong ethical conduct and attention to detail.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, economics, or business administration with relevant accounting courses. A Master’s degree in accounting or finance is considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of three to five years of experience in a similar role, preferably within an international or local NGO, or a financial/banking institution. This experience should include responsibilities related to financial reporting, accounting procedures, and compliance with donor regulations.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for performing the job functions effectively. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position may require travel up to 50%. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. The organization emphasizes a collaborative, mission-driven culture and is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS’s Code of Conduct and complete mandatory safeguarding training upon hire and annually thereafter. CRS prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where it operates.