Accounting Manager

Accounting Manager

Location: Chicago, IL 60637 Duration: 03 Months Pay rate: $63/hr - $70/hr on W2.

Position Summary:

This position supports the financial management and compliance activities of the Office of National Laboratories. This role is responsible for processing and reconciling day-to-day financial transactions, administering financial systems, and preparing budgets, forecasts, and financial reports. The analyst ensures compliance with University and Department of Energy (DOE) requirements and provides analysis to inform decision making. The position works closely with University partners to strengthen financial controls, support Board of Governors reporting, and contribute to audit readiness and process improvements.

Responsibilities:

• Process and review monthly invoices, partner billings, effort reconciliations, and cost corrections to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Review and approve Board of Governors payment and reimbursement requests, ensuring adherence to DOE and University budget guidelines.
• Manage reconciliation of all Board of Governors expenses and financial matters; prepare and submit formal fiscal year close-out reports to DOE.
• Prepare, analyze, and present monthly, quarterly, and annual ONL financial submissions, including budgets, forecasts, and ad hoc reports.
• Deliver clear, actionable financial analysis and recommendations to senior leadership to inform strategic decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with University, DOE, and other federal financial regulations, policies, and reporting standards.
• Strengthen internal controls, streamline processes, and enhance system functionality to improve efficiency and transparency.
• Support internal and external audits through data preparation, documentation, and timely response to information requests.
• Contribute to the development of financial policies, tools, and templates that support effective governance and compliance.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting plus a minimum of ten to fifteen years of progressive experience in accounting and financial analysis.
• Experience with higher education, government contracts, or grant administration a plus.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, Workday, Essbase) and reporting tools preferred.
• Knowledge of GAAP and compliance in government or nonprofit settings.

Competencies:

• Strong accounting principles and financial analysis skills with high attention to detail
• Experienced in reporting, compliance and financial modeling with demonstrated problem-solving ability.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (Oracle, Workday), Excel and reporting tools.
• Ability to manage recurring financial processes while meeting multiple deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and proven ability to build strong partnerships across teams.