The RoleThe Senior Accountant serves as a lead accounting professional responsible for overseeing key financial operations for Meeting Street Schools. This role ensures the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial reporting, supports audits and analysis, and provides
technical guidance to accounting staff. The Senior Accountant acts as a lead resource, providing oversight and support to the Staff Accountant and Financial Analyst to ensure consistency, quality, and adherence to established accounting standards and processes. This position requires a seasoned accounting professional with strong technical expertise and proven experience in identifying and leading process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and internal controls.
Core Responsibilities - Lead and oversee the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of financial results
- Prepare, review, and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, federal grant reimbursements, and financial statements
- Provide day-to-day guidance and technical oversight to the Staff Accountant and Financial Analyst, reviewing work for accuracy and consistency
- Analyze financial data and trends to support budgeting, forecasting, and strategic decision-making
- Ensure compliance with GAAP, internal accounting policies, and applicable regulations
- Identify, design, and lead process improvement initiatives to strengthen accounting operations and improve efficiency
- Evaluate and enhance internal controls, recommending and implementing updates as needed
- Serve as a key contact for external auditors, preparing supporting documentation, and coordinating responses
- Collaborate with the Vice President of Accounting and Finance to prepare management reports, financial dashboards, and presentations for senior leadership
- Participate in the development and implementation of accounting policies, procedures, and systems to support organizational growth
- Provide mentorship and training to accounting team members, fostering professional development and knowledge sharing
Skills & Characteristics- A commitment to the mission and core values of Meeting Street Schools and an unwavering belief that all students can succeed
- Ability to manage multiple priorities with accuracy and composure, supported by strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
- Demonstrated commitment to accuracy, timeliness, continuous learning, integrity, confidentiality, and technical and ethical excellence in accounting practices
- Collaborative, team-oriented professional with clear and proactive communication skills
Educational Background & Experience - A bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field is required
- CPA or progress towards CPA is strongly preferred
- Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive accounting experience, with demonstrated responsibility for month-end and year-end close processes
- Solid understanding of GAAP; with Governmental & Fund Accounting experience
- Proven experience preparing and reviewing journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial statements
- Demonstrated experience setting expectations, modeling best practices, and promoting accountability and consistency across accounting processes
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with cloud-based ERP or accounting systems (e.g., Intacct, NetSuite, QuickBooks Online, etc.)
Compensation and Benefits: The salary range for the Senior Accountant is $86,000 - $105,000, and is commensurate with experience. Additionally, Meeting Street Schools offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to:
- Health, Dental, Vision, and Pet Insurance
- Life Insurance and Disability
- Employee + Family Wellness
- Tax-Favored Spending Accounts (FSA/HSA)
