Senior Accountant

About KIPP LA Schools

KIPP LA Schools is a non-profit organization that operates free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory public charter schools. Our schools, which serve elementary and middle school students in East and South Los Angeles, are part of the national KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) network of 125 schools in 20 states and DC. KIPP schools are dedicated to preparing students in underserved communities for success in college and in life.

KIPP LA’s mission is to teach the academic skills, foster the intellectual habits, and cultivate the character traits needed for our students to thrive in high school, college, and life. Through the success of our students, the KIPP LA team and family will serve as a model of excellence and collaborate with others to raise the quality of education in Los Angeles.

KIPP LA’s schools feature a “no shortcuts, no excuses” philosophy and a strong culture of achievement. Our curricula are designed to provide students a well-rounded education, with sufficient time dedicated to academics, the arts, enrichment, and physical education. KIPP LA’s educators are committed to continually improving their teaching skills, and to giving students the support and motivation they need to excel in school and beyond.

In the 2014-15 school year, KIPP LA will operate eleven schools –and will serve approximately 3,000 students. Our annual consolidated operating budget will be approximately $34 million.  Over the next decade, KIPP LA will grow to 17 schools serving more than 9,000 students in kindergarten through 8^th grade and our KIPP Through College program.

Job Overview

• Reports to Controller
• Responsible for maintaining accurate financial data in the General Ledger System
• Prepares and reviews payroll journal entries
• Ensures month-end and year-end closing by designated deadline
• Prepares bank reconciliation statements and balance sheet account reconciliations monthly - investigates any discrepancies and resolves them in a timely manner and prepares correcting or reclassification entries as needed
• Continually looks for ways to improve processes and makes recommendations to management
• Responsible for making weekly deposits for checks received at School Success Team (SST) and prepares bank deposit entries for corresponding deposits into the accounting system as well as all other bank deposit and withdrawal entries for all bank accounts
• In charge of maintaining fixed asset schedules, including depreciation schedules and ensuring all proper backup documentation is maintained
• Reviews accounts payable invoices for accurate coding
• Works closely with Fiscal Reporting and Compliance Manager and Development Team to ensure that grants are being applied correctly to invoices and/or deposits
• Researches various funding sources and compares funds received with governmental published sources (for ex. CDE website) to ensure accuracy - follows up if any discrepancy is noted
• Prepares year-end revenue and liability accruals in accordance with GAAP
• Provides excellent customer service to all KIPP LA employees by promptly researching and answering questions and information requests
• Assists with the annual year end accounting audit process, including preparing audit schedules
• Performs other ad-hoc projects as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in accounting
• 5+ years of experience
• Demonstrated ability to learn new software systems  
• Intermediate Excel level required; advanced proficiency in MS Excel preferred
• Must be detailed and results-oriented
• Experience with charter school accounting preferred
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to research and learn
• Must be familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the accounting field
• Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals
• Works under general supervision with a degree of creativity and latitude
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a proven ability to meet and complete multiple deadlines and tasks
• Unquestioned commitment to KIPP LA’s mission and values

Salary

Salary Range: $55,000-$60,000/year; Status: Exempt (Salaried) KIPP LA Schools offers a competitive benefits package. 

Start Date:           

Immediate

                     To Apply

Please visit http://go.kippla.org/noninstructionalapp to complete a job application. You will be asked to include your resume and a detailed cover letter demonstrating your interest in working for KIPP LA.

KIPP LA is strongly committed to hiring a diverse and multicultural staff, and we encourage applications from traditionally under-represented backgrounds. KIPP LA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, handicap, age, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnic origin, or any other reason prohibited by state or federal law.