Senior Accountant & Grant Compliance Lead

Senior Accountant & Grant Compliance Lead

About Ecology Project International

EPI is an international non-profit organization dedicated to addressing critical conservation issues through field-based partnerships between local experts and high school students. We engage adolescent youth from local communities and youth and teachers from around the world in applied hands-on science and conservation as they learn about and help protect threatened species and habitats. Through EPI’s programs in five countries throughout the U.S. and Latin America, participants are inspired and empowered to engage in conservation efforts at home and worldwide to become the next generation of conservation leaders. More information can be found at www.ecologyproject.org

Job summary

The Senior Accountant / Grant Compliance Lead is responsible for ensuring the integrity and accuracy of financial data, managing grant compliance and reporting, and supporting core accounting functions for a Montana-based nonprofit with international operations. The role involves a strong understanding of nonprofit accounting standards (GAAP), federal grant compliance, and financial reporting requirements.

Key responsibilities and duties

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP


• Manage accounts receivable and accounts payable processes


• Perform monthly reconciliations (bank accounts, credit cards, grants)


• Maintain the chart of accounts and support month-end closing


• Ensure proper documentation and support for all transactions


• In coordination with the fundraising team, prepare financial grant reports for funders, ensuring compliance with terms


• Lead finance coordinators and program managers in tracking grant budgets, expenditures, and allowable costs


• Assist with audit preparation and support external auditors


• Maintain financial records for organizational and grant compliance


• Coordinate with program and development staff on restricted fund tracking


• Potential for supervision or mentorship DOE


• Periodically serve as Duty Officer on the 24-hour/ERS cell phone


• Other tasks as assigned by the supervisor

Required qualifications and skills

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field (CPA preferred)

• 3–5 years GAAP-compliant accounting experience, preferably in nonprofit organizations


• Demonstrated experience with grant compliance and reporting (federal and private)


• Proficiency with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks) and Excel


• Bilingual (Spanish-English) strongly preferred

• Commitment to EPI's mission and values.

Competencies

Possesses strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills. The ideal candidate should demonstrate adaptability, problem-solving abilities, high attention to detail, and self-motivation.

Reports to

Finance Manager

Direct reports

Potential for supervision or mentorship DOE

Schedule & Location

Location: This position must be able to report to one of EPI’s offices in San Jose, Costa Rica, La Paz, Mexico, or Missoula, Montana.

Schedule: This position is full-time (40 hours/week), typically from 9am to 5pm

Physical Requirements: This position requires sedentary physical capabilities, focusing on using a computer and office equipment for extended periods.

Compensation

Based on the local market and DOE, the starting salary range is $48,500–$50,300 USD per year. If the candidate is hired in Costa Rica or Mexico, the internal salary ranges for those countries will apply, following our “Compensation Policy.” This position also provides a generous benefits package, including 32 days of paid time off per year, health insurance, a retirement plan, and funds for professional development.

EPI is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or age. All qualified candidates will be considered for employment regardless of these factors. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds.