Accountant I (Office of Accounting)
Who we are:
At the nonprofit Urban Institute, we believe in the power of evidence to improve lives and strengthen communities. Our employees are empowered to open minds, shape decisions and offer solutions. We encourage intellectual honesty, innovation, diversity, and mutual respect, and our analysis elevates the debate, wherever it takes place.
Urban’s greatest asset is our people. We strive to attract and cultivate a vibrant, creative, and diverse community. Our employees drive Urban’s mission through entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, effective communication, results-orientation, and relationship cultivation. Our success depends on engaging individuals who possess and value these attributes.
How you’ll contribute:
The Accounting Office is seeking an entry-level accountant to work with the general ledger and balance sheet accounts for the Institute, as well as coordinate invoicing and reporting to external funders. This entry level position is ideal for a new accountant seeking generalist experience, exposure to all facets of business accounting, and looking to grow.
Responsibilities include:
- Process invoices and financial reports for external funders in a timely and accurate manner
- Monitor accounts receivable collections
- Assist with basic accounting responsibilities, including general ledgers reconciliation
- Research and resolve problems and exceptions in each of these areas to facilitate timely posting to related balance sheet accounts
- Prepare journal entries and prepare and review trial balance reports and other management reports
- Respond to inquiries from senior accountants and Institute research teams as needed
- Assist in the month-end closing process
- Provide additional support to the accounting team as necessary
What you’ll bring:
The successful candidate will:
- Possess a bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related field
- Exhibit generalist experience, exposure to all facets of business accounting, and looking to grow
- Display excellent MS Excel, Access and Word skills, the ability to analyze and interpret reports, technical procedures, governmental regulations, and the ability to write routine reports and business correspondence
- Demonstrate excellent communication skills to be able to effectively present information to managers, clients, vendors, and the general public
What you’ll experience:
Working in the Nation’s Capital, the epicenter of public policy among a network of policy experts, you can expect to have an impact on policy areas you care about and work with great colleagues who are smart, mission-driven, and collaborative. You will blend academic rigor with on-the-ground collaboration, be encouraged and supported to fulfill your potential through meaningful work that matters, and enjoy a welcoming workplace free from harassment, discrimination and intolerance.
In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage. Competitive paid time off allowance, and eligibility to participate in a generous retirement savings plan plus elect a pretax benefit for commuting expenses.
The Urban Institute is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity without regard for race, ethnicity, gender, protected veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected status under applicable law.
The Urban Institute is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer Minorities/Women/Disabilities/Veterans.