Senior Accountant

About California Institute of Integral Studies:

California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) is an internationally recognized leader in integral education. CIIS strives to embody spirit, intellect, and wisdom in service of individuals, communities, and the earth. CIIS has an enrollment of over 2,000 students pursuing degrees and professional certificates in a variety of academic programs in its schools of Consciousness and Transformation, Professional Psychology and Health, Undergraduate Studies, and our research centers and global initiatives.

CIIS is a mosaic of faces and philosophies, and backgrounds and beliefs. Like our faculty and staff, students are intellectually engaged and socially active. Each day brings new experiences that broaden horizons and hone critical thinking. Programs, both inside the classroom and throughout the University, inspire creativity, nurture community, cultivate curiosity, and foster social good. In addition, CIIS offers a dynamic array of events through its Public Programs, including conversations, workshops, continuing education, and conferences and hosts a vibrant art exhibition series. The University also provides low-cost mental health services to the San Francisco Bay Area through its 6 award-winning community counseling clinics. CIIS is accredited by the Western Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). 

CIIS strives to cultivate a culture of inclusion and belonging as part of its Seven Commitments. We honor and celebrate diversity of all types. Our diverse and inclusive culture brings us together in ways that empower everyone to connect, belong, and grow.

Job Description:

POSITION SUMMARY

CIIS is seeking a skilled Senior Accountant to support the day-to-day operations of the general accounting function. Reporting to the Accounting Manager, this role is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, supporting timely month-end and year-end close processes, preparing account reconciliations and journal entries, and assisting with financial reporting, audits, compliance, and internal controls.

The Senior Accountant serves as a key accounting resource and provides guidance and support to Staff Accountants and other Finance & Administration team members. The Senior Accountant works closely with other functional areas in Finance, including Accounts Payable, Student Accounts, and FP&A Human Resources, including Payroll and Benefits; Advancement; Facilities & Business Operations; and other departments to achieve the goals of CIIS.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

General Ledger & Financial Close

• Prepare and post monthly and year-end journal entries, accruals, and other general ledger activity.
• Prepare and maintain account reconciliations, including bank, investments, prepaids, fixed assets, deferred revenue, and other assigned accounts.
• Support the monthly and year-end close process and ensure accounting deadlines are met.
• Ensure general ledger activity is accurate, complete, properly classified, and adequately supported.
• Research, investigate, and resolve accounting discrepancies and errors with Accounting Manager input.
• Assist with the review of accounting transactions and supporting documentation.

Financial Reporting

• Provide accounting information and analysis to support management and FP&A reporting.
• Assist with budget-to-actual analysis and preparation of variance explanations.

Compliance & Audit

• Support the annual external audit, including preparation of schedules and account analyses.
• Assist in ensuring compliance with GAAP and relevant nonprofit and higher-education accounting standards (FASB).
• Support the maintenance and strengthening of internal controls over the general accounting function.
• Ensure adherence to CIIS protocols for cash, banking, credit cards, general ledger, restricted funds, fixed assets, leases, endowment/investment accounting, and risk management.
• Assist with federal, state, and city tax and business filings as assigned and with Accounting Manager review.

Accounting Operations

• Perform and support day-to-day general accounting operations.
• Support CIIS's credit card and banking accounting processes.
• Serve as a resource and backup for other accounting functions as needed.
• Provide guidance and support to Staff Accountants and other Finance & Administration team members as appropriate.
• Provide a high level of customer service.
• Perform other tasks or duties as assigned.

Process Improvement

• Assist with documenting and maintaining accounting policies, procedures, and desk-level guidance.
• Support cross-training and continuity of accounting functions.
• Demonstrate and promote a strong customer service orientation within the Accounting team.

Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required.
• 3+ years of progressive accounting experience, with demonstrated experience in general ledger accounting, account reconciliations, and month-end close.
• Strong knowledge of general financial accounting and accrual accounting.
• Understanding of and ability to adhere to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
• Proven experience with nonprofit accounting and financial statements.
• Proficiency with accounting/general ledger software.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to learn enterprise database systems quickly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with other department members and CIIS departments.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience with Ellucian Colleague or Banner ERP systems is highly desirable.
• Nonprofit and/or higher education experience is preferred.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Strong knowledge of general financial accounting and accrual accounting.
• Strong understanding of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with other Finance team members and CIIS departments.
• Proficiency with accounting/general ledger software and Microsoft Office Suite or similar software.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to learn enterprise database systems quickly.
• Ability to research and resolve accounting discrepancies and financial issues.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet accounting and financial reporting deadlines.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• Proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Ability to provide guidance and support to other team members.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills are appreciated.

ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS

Work is primarily performed in a professional office or remote work environment and requires regular use of a computer, telephone, video conferencing platforms, and other standard office equipment.

The position involves significant computer-based work, including reviewing financial statements, spreadsheets, reconciliations, journal entries, reports, and other detailed financial data.

The position requires both independent work and regular collaboration with Finance & Administration, Human Resources, and other departments across CIIS.

Remote employees must maintain a professional and secure work environment appropriate for handling confidential institutional and financial information.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Regular use of a keyboard, mouse, and other standard office equipment.
• Ability to review detailed information on computer screens for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• Ability to participate in onsite meetings, trainings, or other institutional activities as required.
• Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

LOCATION

This position is based at 1453 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA; however, a remote work option is available for candidates who can demonstrate strong self-direction and relevant experience.

Remote candidates may be required to travel to San Francisco up to three times annually, as needed.

Additional Information:

WAGES AND BENEFITS

$85,000 - $90,000 annually. Salary is based on regional cost of living and may vary depending on the employee's work location.

NOTES TO CANDIDATE

• Working Conditions Duties are primarily performed in an office environment at a desk or computer terminal, typically Monday through Friday.
• Background Check Due to the sensitivity and requirements of this position, you should expect to undergo and be cleared of an employment background/criminal check, if extended an offer for employment. You may also be asked to provide proof of educational degree(s), licenses, or credentials pertinent to the position. If your job requires driving on behalf of CIIS you will be required to provide proof of a valid driver's license.
• Visa Sponsorship Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer.
• Relocation Assistance This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY POLICY

At the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS), we are dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging, guided by our Seven Commitments. We value the diverse experiences, perspectives, and identities within our community and strive to create and maintain environments that are inclusive, equitable, accessible, and welcoming for all.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer we are committed to providing an open, fair, and non-discriminatory environment for all individuals, in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. This commitment extends to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, benefits, training, and other terms and conditions of employment.

CIIS actively seeks to recruit and retain individuals who bring a broad range of cultural backgrounds, languages, and life experiences that enhance our institutional mission and values.

Application Instructions:

Screening begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Using the Apply Now link, please submit a resume and cover letter online. In your cover letter, please explain why you would be an excellent fit for this position. For Further Inquiries, please e-mail hr.ticketing@ciis.edu.