Accounting Specialist

Company: American-Scandinavian Foundation (ASF)

Position Title: Accounting Specialist

Reports To: ASF Finance & Operations Director

Classification: Full Time / Exempt

The American-Scandinavian Foundation (ASF) seeks an experienced and mission-driven Accounting Specialist to support the day-to-day financial operations of the Foundation in close partnership with the Director of Finance & Operations and external financial service providers.

Reporting to the ASF Finance & Operations Director, the Accounting Specialist plays a key supporting role in maintaining accurate financial records, coordinating accounting activities, administering payroll, and assisting with budgeting, reporting, audit preparation, and compliance.

This position works collaboratively with internal stakeholders and third-party bookkeeping and payroll partners to ensure the Foundation’s financial operations are accurate, timely, and aligned with nonprofit best practices.

The Accounting Specialist works in close collaboration with

The Director of Finance & Operations, Third-party bookkeeping and payroll service providers, External auditors and tax advisors, Program, development, and operations staff

The successful candidate will have the following key competencies this role are: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, Strong accountability and integrity, Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines, Sound judgment and discretion with confidential information, Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills, and Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with leadership as well as in a team environment

Duties and Responsibilities: Please note this is a general overview of duties and expectations. You may be asked to perform other duties as assigned/required.

• Maintain accurate and timely financial records in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Perform and support daily accounting operations including:

· Accounts payable and receivable (invoice management)

· Cash receipts and deposits

· Journal entries and general ledger maintenance

· Credit card and bank reconciliations

• Collaborate with third-party bookkeeping partners to ensure accurate transaction processing and coding.
• Review bookkeeping outputs for accuracy, completeness, and appropriate documentation.
• Ensure all financial transactions are properly recorded, supported, and approved in accordance with ASF policies.
• Manage biweekly payroll processing, including:

· Coordination with external payroll providers (Paychex) for processing

· Review of payroll registers and deductions

· Posting payroll-related journal entries

· Reconciliation of payroll accounts and benefits liabilities

· Support the annual independent audit and IRS Form 990 preparation in collaboration with the Director of Finance & Operations and external auditors.

· Prepare audit schedules, supporting documentation, and reconciliations.

· Assist in maintaining compliance with:

• IRS regulations applicable to 501(c)(3) organizations
• Federal, state, and local filing requirements
• Grantor and donor financial reporting standards

· Support the maintenance and documentation of internal controls, policies, and procedures.

· Monitor daily cash balances and banking activity.

· Prepare bank deposits and oversee electronic payments.

· Support cash management best practices and internal controls.

· Act as a key financial operations partner while escalating strategic, policy, and financial decision matters to the Director of Finance & Operations.

· Serve as a financial resource to department leaders and program managers.

· Prepare financial materials for leadership and Board committees as requested.

· Partner cross-functionally with development, programs, operations, and administration.

· Participate in continuous improvement of systems, workflows, and reporting tools.

Minimum Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of progressive accounting or finance experience, preferably within a nonprofit organization.
• Demonstrated experience with GAAP accounting, Nonprofit fund accounting, and Financial reporting and internal controls, including, Experience supporting audits and working with external auditors.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel.
• Experience using accounting systems (e.g., Sage, QuickBooks or similar nonprofit accounting platforms).
• Able and willing to work on-site in New York City at least four (4) days per week.

Desired Skills and Abilities

• Experience in arts, cultural, educational, or mission-based nonprofit organizations.
• Familiarity with restricted funds, grants management, and donor reporting.
• CPA or advanced accounting credential a plus.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Annual salary is offered at $75,000.00
• A generous healthcare and retirement package.
• A generous annual paid time off (PTO) package, including paid holidays, which are aligned with the State holiday observation.

Location

The American-Scandinavian Foundation is based at Scandinavia House, 58 Park Ave, New York, NY 10016. This role requires on-site work in New York City at least three days per week.

Equal Opportunity

Employer: The American-Scandinavian Foundation is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, or current employment status.

Only candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be considered.

Pay: $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Commuter assistance
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Application Question(s):

• Do you have experience using accounting systems such as Sage or Quickbooks?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Finance: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• New York, NY 10016 (Required)

Work Location: In person