The Crowden School is hiring: Accountant in Berkeley

• 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:

1. Cover letter describing your interest in nonprofit accounting and passion for supporting music education
2. Current resume highlighting relevant accounting and supervisory experience
3. 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.