The Crowden School
Reports to: Head of School
Start Date: Immediate
Status: Regular, full-time, salaried, exempt position
THE OPPORTUNITY:
For over 40 years, Crowden has been transforming lives through music and education. We are seeking a dedicated Accountant to provide essential financial leadership and oversight within our music-centered educational environment.
This position will join a vibrant community of students, teachers, and musicians who believe in the power of collaborative musical and educational experiences to shape young minds and build inclusive communities. As a key member of our administrative team, you will ensure the financial health and accountability of our organization while supporting Crowden's mission of making high-quality music education accessible to diverse communities.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
As the Accountant, you will:
Prepare monthly financial statements, budget vs. actual variance reports, and comprehensive financial reports for leadership and the Board of Directors
Lead the annual budget development process and ongoing organizational cost-control efforts
Supervise and mentor the bookkeeper who handles accounts payable and receivable functions
Ensure compliance with GAAP, nonprofit accounting standards (FASB ASC 958), and all regulatory requirements
Manage accounting for restricted and unrestricted funds, including grant compliance and donor restriction tracking
Collaborate with external auditors for preparation of annual Form 990 tax filings and annual financial review and/or audit process
Attend Board meetings and present clear, comprehensive financial reports to trustees and committees
Develop and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to protect organizational assets
Support tuition and fee management, scholarship programs, and student account reconciliation
Collaborate with development staff on donor stewardship reports and fundraising financial analysis
Provide financial analysis and forecasting to support strategic planning and program development
Manage banking relationships, investment account oversight, and cash flow management
Oversee payroll processing and coordinate with outsourced payroll partner to ensure accurate and timely payment of all employees
Review payroll reports, manage payroll-related accounting entries, and ensure proper allocation of payroll costs across programs and departments
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration
Minimum 5 years of progressive accounting experience
Experience supervising accounting staff and managing team performance
Strong knowledge of fund accounting, GAAP, and nonprofit financial reporting requirements
Proficiency with QuickBooks Online and advanced Excel skills
Demonstrated ability to prepare clear financial reports for non-financial audiences
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Commitment to supporting an inclusive, mission-driven organization
Preferred:
Experience in educational institutions, arts organizations, or other non-profits
Certified Nonprofit Accounting Professional (CNAP) designation
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL POSSESS:
Passion for supporting music education and community access to the arts
Strategic thinking ability with strong problem-solving skills
Collaborative approach and ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders
Commitment to accuracy, transparency, and ethical financial practices
Leadership skills and experience developing staff capabilities
Understanding of the unique financial challenges and opportunities in arts education
Dedication to Crowden's vision of transforming lives through music and education
BENEFITS:
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan with employer contribution
Flexible work arrangements with hybrid remote options (minimum of 3-days onsite per week)
Supportive and collaborative work environment in a music-rich setting
Opportunity to contribute to meaningful mission-driven work
TO APPLY:
Join us in transforming lives through music and education! Please submit:
Cover letter describing your interest in nonprofit accounting and passion for supporting music education
Current resume highlighting relevant accounting and supervisory experience
Three professional references
Send applications to: accountant2025@crowden.org. No phone calls, please.
Crowden Music Center, located just two blocks from North Berkeley BART, is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes candidates who contribute to our diverse community.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
#J-18808-Ljbffr