Senior Accountant

About Spertus Institute

The Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership is the leading center for Jewish learning and leadership, empowering individuals and communities through rigorous scholarship, applied Jewish learning, and innovative leadership development. Attuned to the evolving world, we cultivate informed and resilient leaders across North America and around the globe through innovative and outstanding degree, certificate, and professional training programs. We engage all who are eager to learn, no matter their religious or cultural background. At Spertus Institute, our work sits at the intersection of higher education and community. We offer learning that sparks insight, engagement, and impact.

Position Summary

The Senior Accountant serves as part of the organization’s accounting operations, which involves documenting business transactions, participating in the month-end close process, and supporting the audit and grant reporting processes. The position also supports accounting for Venue SIX10, which handles space rentals of the Institute’s meeting and educational spaces. Reporting to the Director of Finance & Controller, this position is an excellent opportunity to work in a collaborative, team-focused environment that values personal growth, partnership, and having a positive impact on both local and global communities. The position is a hybrid role, working Mondays, Tuesday, and Thursdays in our award-winning office next to Grant Park and the flexibility to work remotely Wednesday and Fridays.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Operations

• Prepare journal entries and account reconciliations related to cash, investments, fixed assets, accruals, and other major accounts based upon generally accepted accounting standards
• Perform month-end and year-end close activities, including journal entries, account analysis, reconciliations, schedules, and documentation
• Analyze new grant agreements for proper accounting treatment
• Prepare activity analysis around revenue and expenses to support monthly reporting to departments
• Maintain fixed asset and depreciation schedules
• Assist in semimonthly payroll reconciliations
• Ensure all transactions are recorded in compliance with nonprofit accounting standards, internal controls, and organizational policies
• Create and maintain spreadsheets, reports, and other department records

Audit and Grant Reporting

• Prepare schedules and gather supporting documentation for annual financial audits, grant and third-party audits, and tax filings; respond to auditor requests as assigned.
• Assist in financial tracking and reporting for grants and restricted gifts
• Assist departments across the organization with financial reporting requests

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of related experience in accounting or finance role participating in month/year-end closing procedures. Nonprofit experience is a plus but not required
• Knowledge of GAAP accounting and proficiency in the account reconciliation process
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills and positive attitude
• Proficiency with using Excel to prepare reconciliations and other supporting documents
• Interest in learning multiple software packages; QuickBooks Online experience is a plus

Benefits

• Pay range: $75,000 - $85,000
• Available medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans
• 403B Retirement Fund and matching contributions
• Paid time off, including some Federal holidays and major Jewish holidays
• Pre-tax transportation benefit