Accountant

The Accountant supports the financial integrity and operational efficiency of Etoile charter school by managing day-to-day accounting functions, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and supporting both HR and payroll processes. Reporting to the Chief People Officer, the Accountant plays a critical role in aligning fiscal operations with the school’s people-centered strategies and overall mission.

Accounting & Financial Operations

• Maintain accurate financial records and ledgers in accordance with GAAP and state/federal guidelines.

• Prepare and post journal entries, reconcile bank and balance sheet accounts.

• Manage accounts payable and receivable, ensuring timely and accurate processing.

• Assist with monthly, quarterly, and year-end close procedures.

• Monitor expenditures to ensure compliance with school budget and funding guidelines.

• Prepare financial reports and provide data for grants, audits, and compliance reviews.
• Managing fund codes and Ascender
• Ascender Financial Audits

Payroll & Benefits Support

• Collaborate with HR to support accurate payroll processing, benefit deductions, and retirement reporting.

• Review payroll entries and adjustments to ensure alignment with employment contracts and HR records.

• Assist with the reconciliation of payroll and benefit accounts.

Budgeting & Financial Planning

• Support the annual budgeting process in collaboration with the CPO and finance leadership.

• Provide budget monitoring and analysis to school leaders, including variance reports and forecasting.

• Track grant expenditures to ensure allowable use of funds and reporting accuracy.

Audit & Compliance

• Assist in preparing documentation for annual financial audits, state/federal reviews, and charter authorizer reports.

• Maintain documentation for compliance with charter regulations, IRS requirements, and TEA guidelines (as applicable).

Cross-Functional Support

• Partner with HR, operations, and leadership teams to align financial practices with school priorities.

• Support the implementation of finance and HR systems and processes that drive efficiency and transparency.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in accounting or finance, preferably in a school, nonprofit, or public-sector setting.

• Experience with fund accounting, state/federal grants, or charter school finance strongly preferred.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit/educational accounting standards.

• Proficiency with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Abila, or similar) and Microsoft Excel.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• High attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong communication and collaboration skills, especially with HR and payroll teams.

• Integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.

• A collaborative mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.

• Mission-driven with a commitment to equity and excellence in education.

• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required, particularly during budget season or audit periods.

• Some travel between campuses or to external meetings may be required.