This position will be based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. FIRE operates on a hybrid work schedule that allows for a mix of in-the-office and remote work for eligible employees. This position is not eligible for remote work.

About FIRE

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression’s mission is to defend and sustain the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought — the most essential qualities of liberty. FIRE educates Americans about the importance of these inalienable rights, promotes a culture of respect for these rights, and provides the means to preserve them.

Position Description

The Staff Accountant will report directly to FIRE’s Director of Finance and Accounting and will work closely with FIRE’s Administrative and Development departments. The Staff Accountant will play a role in supporting FIRE’s mission by ensuring the accurate processing and tracking of donations, managing accounts payable and receivable while also working to support the Finance and Accounting department. The duties for this position include, but are not limited to:

Donation Processing:

• Record and track donations accurately and in a timely manner, including cash, checks, credit card transactions, pledges, stocks, in-kind gifts, and grants.
• Reconcile donation records with the donor management system (Salesforce) and accounting system to ensure completeness and accuracy.
• Generate acknowledgment letters and tax receipts for donors in accordance with IRS guidelines for charitable contributions.
• Process recurring donations and updating donor profiles as needed.
• Assist with donor inquiries related to donation receipts, transactions, and reporting.

Accounts Payable/Receivable:

• Process and manage accounts payable transactions, ensuring accurate coding and timely payments.
• Review and process invoices, verifying accuracy and supporting documentation.
• Communicate with vendors and FIRE staff to research and resolve questions or discrepancies.
• Assist with the management of outstanding receivables and follow up on overdue payments.

General Accounting Duties:

• Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Support the month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring that all financial transactions are recorded accurately.
• Maintain general ledger entries and ensure that all accounts are reconciled monthly.
• Prepare journal entries and assist with the allocation of revenue and expenses as needed.

This position will be expected to perform certain miscellaneous support functions necessary for FIRE’s day-to-day operations and will frequently collaborate with other staff members and departments on general duties and specialized projects.

The expected start date for this position is as soon as possible. 

Qualifications

A successful candidate will have a good work ethic, be a detail-oriented individual, and have the ability to work independently. Most importantly, the candidate must demonstrate a knowledge and passion for FIRE’s mission and an ability to articulate that passion in a way that will make others enthusiastic about our cause. A candidate must also be able to demonstrate:

• Strong attention to detail. 
• High level of precision and strong follow-through abilities.
• Excellent organizational skills. 
• Effective communication skills and a robust work ethic.  
• The ability to work well independently and with others in a collaborative environment. 
• Familiarity with accounting software solutions (e.g., QuickBooks, Bill.com), donor management systems (e.g., Salesforce), Excel, and Google Suite.
• Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and nonprofit financial practices.

Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field and one to three years of experience in accounting or a similar financial role, preferably in a nonprofit environment.

Salary and Compensation

Starting salary is negotiable and depends upon experience and education level. FIRE conducts periodic evaluations where employees may receive raises or bonuses for outstanding and excellent work. FIRE also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes employer-paid comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance for employees; a Section 125 Flexible Spending Account option; matching retirement contributions; and a generous paid time-off plan.

Applications

Applicants should provide a resume, cover letter, salary requirements, and contact information for at least two professional references. All applications are confidential. Please address applications to Cait Scanlan, Chief People Officer.

FIRE is an equal opportunity employer.