Company Overview Close Up Foundation is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, civic education organization that aims to inform, inspire, and empower young people to become active participants in our democracy. We believe a strong democracy requires engagement by all citizens. Therefore, we seek to reach youth from all communities and all backgrounds. Since 1971, we have partnered with schools nationwide to serve more than one million students and educators through experiential programs in our nation’s capital and in local communities, professional development for educators, and curriculum and resource design.

Position Overview | We are seeking an experienced and strategic certified public accountant (CPA) with deep nonprofit expertise to lead and oversee core accounting functions. The CPA Senior Accountant will play a key role in financial leadership, ensuring compliance, strengthening internal controls, supporting organizational strategy, and providing high-level financial insight to executive leadership and the Close Up Board of Directors. The position is full-time and in-person at Close Up’s Arlington, VA headquarters.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead preparation and review of accurate, timely financial statements in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards.
• Oversee general ledger operations and month-end and year-end close processes.
• Manage and optimize fund accounting, including complex restricted and multi-year grant funds.
• Ensure full compliance with Internal Revenue Service regulations, including preparation and review of Form 990.
• Direct the annual audit process and serve as liaison with external auditors.
• Oversee grant accounting, compliance, and reporting across multiple funding sources.
• Design, implement, and continuously improve internal controls, policies, and financial procedures.
• Supervise and mentor accounting staff; review work and support professional development.
• Evaluate and improve accounting systems, processes, and workflows for efficiency and scalability.
• Support strategic initiatives as needed, including program expansion, funding models, and financial sustainability.

Qualifications

• Active CPA license (required).
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field (master’s degree preferred).
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, with significant nonprofit experience.
• Strong expertise in fund accounting, grant compliance, and nonprofit financial reporting.
• Extensive experience with audits and preparation/review of Form 990.
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience.
• Advanced proficiency in accounting systems; Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central a plus.
• Expert-level Excel and financial analysis skills.
• Strong knowledge of internal controls and financial governance.

Compensation and Benefits | The salary range is $120K-$140K, commensurate with experience. Close Up provides a comprehensive benefits package which includes robust medical, dental, and vision coverage, with more than 90 percent of premiums company-paid. Close Up pays 100 percent of the premiums for life/AD&D insurance and short- and long-term disability insurance, and offers flexible spending and dependent care accounts, a 403(b) retirement savings program, paid vacation/sick days/holidays, paid parental leave, a Metro subsidy or free garage parking, free gym access, and a positive work environment.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume describing why this position is the right fit for your skills and experience.

No phone calls or recruiters, please.

Close Up Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.