The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc. (AURA), a nonprofit incorporated in 1957, operates as a consortium of 46 US institutions and 4 international affiliates responsible for the construction, operation and maintenance of world-class astronomical observatories and research centers. AURA employs approximately 1,500 people located in Washington, D.C., Maryland, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, and Chile. With an annual budget of approximately $300 million, AURA’s role is to establish, cultivate and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. This position will report to Baltimore, MD or Washington DC office. Hybrid work model-in the office 1-2 days a week.
AURA is seeking a Financial Reporting Manager to serve in a critical role supporting AURA’s mission. This individual will report directly to the Deputy CFO / Corporate Controller. This position is responsible for assisting with the timely execution and accurate financial reports, audits and compliance for AURA’s activities. The Financial Reporting Manager will work with the Center’s accounting teams to ensure timely and accurate completion of monthly financial reports, the annual financial statement audit, Uniform Guidance Audit, 403(b) audit, IRS Form 990, and periodic consolidated financial reporting. This individual plays a critical role in developing and implementing proper internal controls while supporting business objectives and the strategic plan. Contributes to a culture of continuous process improvement throughout the accounting and financial function and all related activities. The ideal candidate will have accounting, audit and financial reporting experience in a large nonprofit institution or federally funded research center.
Areas of responsibility:
- Support the Deputy CFO/Corporate Controller in financial reporting, consolidation tool and the periodic consolidation and review of the financial results.
- Prepares timely and accurate monthly financial statements for internal customers; responsible for all quarterly and annual financial reporting within the organization.
- Prepares the consolidation of the finance and accounting of a parent non-profit with 2 divisions and one international branch.
- Supports the Deputy CFO/Corporate Controller and Divisional Controllers in preparing AURA’s financial statement audit, Uniform Guidance audit, 403(b) audit and related FORM 5500 audit, and IRS Form 990 preparation.
- Assist the Deputy CFO/Corporate Controller with coordinating the year-end close process, audit preparation and on-site audit work for annual external financial statement audit.
- Performs technical accounting research and activities in collaboration with the Deputy CFO/Corporate Controller.
- Assists with writing, implementing and compliance of new accounting and finance policies and procedures to improve the efficiency, accuracy and consistency across the organization.
- Proficient in existing and future software applications used in the accounting and financial reporting processes.
- Assist in the design and internal controls and preparation and maintenance of internal control documentation.
Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:
- Bachlelor’s degree in Accounting or related field with 5-7 years of progressive experience
- Established expertise of the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and including experience with not-for-profit accounting and financial reporting requirements
- Experience with COSO and ability to develop and/or modify policies and processes as needed
- Experience with financial reporting systems, financial report development in Excel
- Experience in Multicurrency/International environment
- Demonstrated ability to drive process improvement
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Experience creating financial reports and reporting packages and establishing standards for ensuring quality
- Experience working in a multi-cultural environment, in an international organization and/or in a high technology industry sector
- Results oriented with a high level of integrity and discretion in handling confidential information
- Excellent management abilities, adept leader capable of inspiring and motivating teams through change, and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels, orally and in writing
Preferred Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:
- Active CPA license or Masters in Accounting or related field
- Knowledge and understanding of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
- Demonstrated knowledge of the OMB Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance)
- Familiarity using COGNOS financial reporting to develop standard financial reporting consolidation packages.
- Fluency in Spanish
A travel requirement of 5% travel is necessary for this position, with travel to AURA facilities in Washington D.C., Maryland, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, and Chile.
Substitution of additional meaningful education or experience for stated qualifications may be considered.
To Apply: Share your experience by completing an online application. Please upload one cover letter and resume on one PDF document for review. Applications received by July 26, 2024 will receive full review.
As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. AURA and all of its centers recruit, employ, train, compensate and promote regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, and/or any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity.
AURA sees the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in our desire to build an outstanding scientific community. We reflect that deep dedication in strongly encouraging women, minorities, veterans and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities.
Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu. EOE/AA/M/F/D/V
