Staff Accountant

About the Role

This position manages complete accounting cycles for multiple campuses within Uncommon Schools. The Staff Accountant ensures precise financial records and supports resource allocation that directly benefits students. Daily responsibilities transform complex transactions into clear financial narratives for network leadership. This role serves as a critical connection point between school operations, central office management, and external partners. The position upholds fiscal compliance and strengthens internal controls across the network.

Key Responsibilities

Managing general ledger functions for several educational campuses requires meticulous attention to detail. The Staff Accountant maintains comprehensive financial record-keeping systems to ensure accuracy. Recording financial transactions in the general ledger with appropriate adjusting entries is a core function. Posting monthly and annual closing entries, including comprehensive journal entries, is performed regularly. Monthly ledger reconciliations verify the integrity of financial data.

Transaction oversight spans the full spectrum of financial activity. The Staff Accountant monitors accounts receivable, accounts payable, cash receipts, and cash disbursements. Organization credit card expenses are reconciled and managed with efficiency. Monthly bank reconciliations are prepared, and any unusual items are investigated and resolved promptly. Review of philanthropic contributions and grants received is conducted, recording these transactions in compliance with nonprofit accounting standards.

Compliance, asset management, and audit preparation represent significant areas of responsibility. Fixed asset records and associated depreciation schedules are maintained and updated consistently. Monthly rent and lease schedules are managed, with annual updates and adjustments following GASB 87 regulations for lease adoption. The Staff Accountant prepares detailed accounting records, work papers, and documentation to support external accountants during 990 filings and annual audits. Organizational fiscal policies, procedures, and internal control guidelines are maintained and enforced.

Collaboration with stakeholders and systems management are integral to this position. The Staff Accountant acts as a reliable liaison for internal teams, network leadership, bankers, and vendors. Annual system training for users of the Workday platform is led and executed by this role. Conducting research to support strategic team initiatives, special projects, and other specialized accounting requests is essential.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Accounting is mandatory for this role. Candidates must hold 1-2 years of relevant accounting experience. A strong proficiency in MS Excel is required, including advanced functions such as VLOOKUP and Pivot Tables across the MS Office Suite. A deep understanding of accounting principles is necessary, with the ability to read, understand, and identify issues within financial statements. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required, paired with focused attention to detail and consistent follow-through.

Preferred Qualifications

Additional experience is valued for candidates with 3-4 years of combined accounting background, particularly in nonprofit accounting, fund accounting, Uniform Guidance, or work with external auditors. Prior experience within a multi-site organization or K-12 public education environment is preferred. Advanced experience with ERP and accounting software is expected, with a strong preference for Workday, Sage Intacct, or NetSuite. Knowledge of nonprofit accounting rules specific to donations, grants, and GAAP lease standards is preferred.

Physical Requirements

This role involves minimal physical demands, with the primary requirement being the ability to sit at a desk for prolonged periods.

Our Compensation and Benefits

Uncommon Schools invests in its staff, offering competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the health, wellness, and finances of our team. We value equity, fairness, and the attraction and retention of top talent.

The full compensation range for this role is $67,300-$79,200. Typically, new hires who fully meet all qualifications listed in the job description will start at $71,300. Starting compensation may be adjusted based on experience or qualifications. Compensation determinations consider relevant professional experience and tenure. Current staff members are not subject to salary caps within this range, reflecting our commitment to internal growth.

Benefits include 19 days of paid time off and 3 weeks of paid Winter and Summer organizational holidays. Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans are provided. The 403(b) retirement savings program includes an employer match. Paid leave of absence options cover parental, medical, disability, and other needs. Mental health and counseling support, along with wellness benefits, are available. Pre-tax flexible spending, dependent care, and health saving accounts are also offered.

Uncommon Schools is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, prohibiting discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law. We ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and reasonable accommodations for the interview process and job functions. To request an accommodation, please email recruitment@uncommonschools.org.

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Our presence spans Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester. We are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, demonstrating our dedication to success. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference.