Staff accountant (Grants)

Description

The Staff Accountant (Grants) supports accounting and grant-related functions for assigned programs and entities of the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA, with a focus on grant-funded activity, reporting, and compliance support. This role helps ensure grant activity is accurately recorded, tracked, and documented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and nonprofit grant requirements. Under the direction of the Accounting Manager, this role supports grant reporting, assists with month-end close for grant activity, and works with internal departments to support compliance documentation and audit readiness.

Essential Functions:

• Maintain accurate accounting records and supporting documentation for assigned entities, including grant-funded activity, ensuring organized schedules, reconciliations, and audit-ready files
• Assist with the preparation of grant billing and reimbursement requests; track payments and follow up to support timely collection
• Prepare grant variance reports and budget-to-actual analyses; research discrepancies and recommend corrections for review
• Assist in monitoring grant budgets, deadlines, reporting requirements, and compliance documentation in coordination with the Director of Grants & Compliance
• Support month-end close for assigned entities and grant activity, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and general ledger review
• Perform bank reconciliations and maintain supporting schedules for assigned grant-related accounts
• Partner with program teams and internal departments to resolve coding, allocation, and documentation issues affecting grant reporting accuracy, escalating as needed
• Support the annual audit process by preparing reconciliations, schedules, and required financial documentation, including grant-related support
• Maintain organized grant files and supporting documentation to ensure compliance, retention, and ease of retrieval
• Assist in identifying process improvements related to grant tracking, documentation, and reporting in coordination with the Director of Grants & Compliance
• Cross-train within the Finance department and collaborate with internal departments and branches
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with staff and colleagues across the organization
• Follow YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to risk management, safety, and child abuse prevention
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Accounting Manager

Requirements

• Associate's degree in Accounting required
• 1-3 years of related experience, preferably in a nonprofit environment and/or supporting grant-funded programs
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including formulas, VLOOKUPs, and pivot tables
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Collaborative and service-oriented approach
• Valid driver's license and access to a vehicle preferred