Senior Accountant

Our organization

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent nonprofit that puts rigorous, independent science into action, developing solutions and advocating for a healthy, safe, and just future. We envision a peaceful, healthy, and just world where science serves people and the planet by guiding policy decisions, reducing risks, and improving lives.

For over five decades, we have been working as scientists, engineers, economists, advocates, and everyday people to create and advocate for innovative, practical solutions to some of our planet’s most pressing problems—from combating global warming and developing sustainable ways to feed, power, and transport ourselves, to fighting disinformation, advancing racial equity, and reducing the threat of nuclear war. Values informing our work include:

• Science in the service of people and the planet.

• Justice and Equity for people of all races and incomes—now, and for future generations.
• Courage to take principled, science-based stands in the public arena.
• Integrity to always examine evidence critically, openly, and honestly.
• Democracy to promote a voice for all in government decisions.
• Action inspiring and mobilizing people to build a healthier, safer, and more just world.

UCS’s Executive Department

The Senior Accountant reports to the Director of Finance and is responsible for maintaining the month-end and year-end close, including the preparation of accounting journal entries and bank reconciliations. The position will assist with other accounting activities as assigned, such preparing reconciliations and participating in annual audits. The position assists in maintaining the smooth running of all functions of finance. Must maintain appropriate levels of confidentiality of UCS’s financial and personnel information as directed by UCS management and policies.

The Position

The essential job duties/responsibilities of the position are included in but not limited to the information listed below.

UCS is committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We believe the inclusion of diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. All staff participate in this commitment whether internally, in building a welcoming workplace culture and /or externally, in ensuring inclusive engagement with supporters, media, vendors, allies and others.

Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly accounting journal entries and bank reconciliations.
• Provide financial tracking information to the Development Team and budget managers.
• Reconcile general ledger activity and subsidiary accounts; contribute to the preparation of monthly financial statements, including distributing monthly revenue and expenditure reports to UCS departments electronically.
• Ensure accuracy of all expenses, revenue, and activity when each month is closed.
• During high volume contribution times, such as calendar year-end, assist in tracking, reconciling, and gathering appropriate back-up documentation for incoming donations.
• Assist in organization’s monthly financial closing process and fiscal year-end audit process.
• Complete all aspects of investment paperwork related to inherited accounts in which UCS is named a beneficiary. Provide updates to relevant staff, ensure distribution of funds is received, and manage appropriate audit materials.
• Maintain back-up documentation for all accounting and financial activity and assist in the ongoing accounting of UCS’s revenue.
• Work with relevant Development staff on reconciling organization’s revenue and different revenue categories with Raiser’s Edge platform. Assist in troubleshooting when discrepancies or uncertainties arise.
• Review expense budget coding as needed for employee submitted expenses and answer questions related to employee expenses, including reporting from all staff.
• Maintain tracking and accounts for fixed assets and capital purchases.
• Assist in preparing documentation for the annual audit, Form 990, charitable registrations, and reporting requirements.
• Assist in the design and usability of the Finance Team’s document management and storage system website (SharePoint).
• Maintain and update Finance Team procedures/manuals and documentation ensuring they are accurate. Revise when necessary.
• Maintains awareness of role as representative of UCS; ensures activities and statements enhance organizations reputation and credentials among press, public, and private sectors; promotes UCS, advances organizational objectives, and enhances funding opportunities.