Accountant

OUR MISSION
Cultural Survival is an Indigenous-led NGO and U.S.-registered nonprofit that advocates for Indigenous Peoples' rights and has supported Indigenous communities' self-determination, cultures, and political resilience since 1972. For 54 years, Cultural Survival has partnered with Indigenous communities to advance their rights and cultures worldwide. The foundation of our efforts is to support, amplify, and raise awareness of self-determination for Indigenous communities. We have cultivated a robust network of partnerships with Indigenous communities spanning over 70 countries on six continents. Our work is guided by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
The qualifications listed below describe our ideal candidate; however, we understand the best candidate might not meet every listed criterion. Studies show that women and members of structurally marginalized and underrepresented groups often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Cultural Survival encourages you to submit your application, even if you don’t meet all the qualifications for the position.
We look forward to hearing about your interest in our work.
Cultural Survival is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the application process and during employment.

POSITION OVERVIEW
The Accountant role is essential to maintaining Cultural Survival's financial integrity. This position ensures compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), internal controls, donor requirements, and grant agreements. Responsibilities include managing daily accounting functions, preparing financial reports, and maintaining accurate financial records. The role significantly supports organizational decision-making by ensuring that timely, accurate financial information is available.
The responsibilities and expectations outlined below are integral to the role’s success. The position requires strong technical skills, a commitment to transparency, and the ability to thrive in a multicultural nonprofit environment.

Demonstrated nonprofit experience is required, as it provides valuable insight into the operational dynamics and mission-driven focus needed for success at Cultural Survival. For the right candidate to thrive in this role, understanding nonprofit structures and goals is integral. Experience in nonprofit accounting equips candidates to navigate complex funding mechanisms, prioritize impact-driven outcomes, and align their work with our commitment to Indigenous Peoples' rights and cultural preservation.
Familiarity with Indigenous knowledge systems, cultures, and traditions is a significant advantage for applicants. It enables a deeper understanding of the communities we serve and strengthens our ability to advance our mission. While not a requirement, this familiarity can significantly enhance the role's relevance and impact.
This role contributes to ensuring that our financial practices reflect our commitments to transparency, accountability, and Indigenous-centered values, and it offers meaningful room for professional growth and increasing responsibility within our Finance team.

LANGUAGE SKILLS REQUIRED
Fluency in English and Spanish is required. Fluency in an Indigenous language is also highly desirable.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
● A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience, is required.
● 3+ years of progressive accounting experience, with demonstrated experience in nonprofit accounting is required.
● Fluency in English and Spanish is required. Fluency in an Indigenous language is highly desirable.
● Lived experience or work experience in support of Indigenous communities is strongly preferred, but not required.
Skills and Competencies
● Familiarity with grant compliance and accounting standards.
● Strong organizational and time-management skills as well as excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.
● Professionalism and discretion when handling sensitive information.
● Proficiency in accounting software, with Sage Intacct as preferred.
● Willingness and ability to travel up to 10% of the time to attend Cultural Survival events. All travel expenses are covered by the organization.
● CPA certification is valuable but not required.
WHAT WE OFFER
Cultural Survival provides a competitive compensation package, including:
● Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance (90% employer-covered for individuals, partners, and families).
● Generous leave policies: 15 vacation days, 14 holidays, 12 sick days, and 3 personal days annually.
● Paid family and parental leave (up to 6 weeks), with additional unpaid leave options.
● Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage.
● 6% employer match for retirement contributions through ADP Retirement.
● Partial reimbursement for personal cell phone and home internet costs.
● Professional development opportunities, including training in grant management, and financial compliance.
● Participation in CS’s employee wellness program.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Accounting and Financial Operations
● Oversee accounting operations, including accounts payable, payroll, general ledger maintenance and inter-account bank transfers.
● Ensure timely and accurate data entry and record-keeping in compliance with GAAP.
● Manage payroll processing, including reviewing, approving, and ensuring compliance with labor laws.
● Reconcile financial accounts, including bank statements and investment records, monthly.
● Handle grants and donations, ensuring proper tracking, allocation, and reporting.
● Responsible for funds disbursement to vendors and to field staff outside the USA.
● Ensure compliance with credit card policies and reconciling charges.
● Maintain adherence to CS’s Records and Record Retention Policy.
Financial Reporting and Planning
● Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, including balance sheets and income statements.
● Assist with developing and monitoring the annual budget, and participate in financial planning and analysis to support strategic organizational goals.
● Provide financial insights to support leadership and the Finance Committee's decision-making.
● Facilitate the annual audit process and ensure compliance with tax filing requirements, including IRS Form 990.
Internal Controls and Compliance
● Develop and enforce internal controls to protect organizational assets. Investigate and resolve discrepancies in financial data.
● Periodically review vendor records to ensure compliance with policies.
Collaboration with Human Resources
● Support the administration of employee benefits, including enrollment, updates, and terminations in plans such as health and life insurance. This task is performed as needed, in coordination with HR, which provides necessary employee information and communicates plan details to staff.
● Collaborate on annual benefit plan renewals and provide financial analysis to support decision-making.
Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement
● Collaborate with the Senior Accounting & Office Manager to implement financial strategies.
● Serve as the primary point of contact for financial questions from internal and external stakeholders.
● Train and mentor staff on financial processes and tools.
● Represent the Finance department in cross-functional meetings and external audits.
Bazaar Event Finance Support (periodic, during Cultural Survival's Bazaar events)
Cultural Survival hosts Bazaar events during a small number of weekends each year. These events are the primary reason for the travel described in this position, and during them, the Accountant serves as the on-site finance lead. This includes:
● Oversee cashier operations, including cash handling, credit card transactions, and daily reconciliation to ensure accurate financial records and transaction processing.
● Provide on-site financial support to vendors during bazaar events by assisting with sales transactions, tracking revenue, and resolving payment-related queries.
● Count and reconcile cash at the end of each event day, accurately recording financial data and maintaining transaction records in the organization's database.
● Calculate vendor revenues based on verified sales records and process vendor payouts accurately and in a timely manner.