Point Blue Conservation Science

Accountant II at Point Blue Conservation Science 

Location: Hybrid- based out of Point Blue's Headquarters in Petaluma, CA

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt 

Compensation and Benefits: $70, 304.00- $82,877.00 annually, depending on experience and internal equity. Point Blue provides a comprehensive benefit package including employer paid medical and dental for staff and 75% for dependents. Other benefits include life insurance, long- and short-term disability, flexible spending accounts, and retirement plans as well as time off benefits.

About Point Blue:

Point Blue Conservation Science is a growing and internationally renowned non-profit with over 160 staff and scientists based in Petaluma, California. Founded in 1965 as Point Reyes Bird Observatory, our mission and programs have evolved over time to include a broad range of conservation activity, from restoration to environmental education to innovative work in the field of regenerative agriculture.  We have a proven track record of scientific excellence.

We are committed to removing barriers based on racial, gender, cultural, and other factors and believe that equal representation is essential to the success of Point Blue’s mission and vision. We seek and strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds to join our teams.

Job Summary: 

The Accountant II supports the accounting team through reconciliations, month-end close activities, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and cash management. The Accountant II performs various professional accounting duties including maintenance and analysis of accounting records, preparation of accounting schedules, reports and financial statements; prepares journal entries and reconciles ledger accounts; ensures compliance with generally accepted accounting principles and organization's policies, procedures and contracts.  

Essential Functions: 

Accounting and Reporting (40%) 

• Performs monthly and year-end close tasks as assigned. 

• Prepares and posts recurring and non-recurring journal entries. 

• Drives complex balance sheet account reconciliations and account analysis. 

• Investigates and resolves accounting discrepancies using independent judgement. 

• Works with the Controller and Accounting Manager to develop and maintain Point Blue’s financial and accounting policies and procedures and ensures accounting records and documentation comply with GAAP. 

• Identifies opportunities and make recommendations to improve accounting processes and operational efficiency. 

• Prepare and maintain reconciliations, accounting analysis, and supporting financial schedules. 

• Maintain the fixed asset records, depreciation schedules, and related reconciliations.  

• Perform tasks relating to grant and contract reporting. 

Compliance, Internal Controls & Financial Systems (20%) 

• Coordinates audit requests and serves as primary accounting contact for assigned audit areas. 

• Participate in the Single Audit and annual financial statement audit activities.  

• Prepare grant reporting schedules and compliance documentation. 

• Collaborate with the Accounting Manager to evaluate accounting processes and recommend improvements.  

• Maintains and administers accounting systems. 

• Develops and maintains accounting procedures and documentation. 

• Assists with implementation of new accounting standards and system enhancements. 

• Evaluates internal controls and recommends improvements. 

Accounts Payable (25%) 

• Manage invoice requests, ensure documentation is complete, and routes items for approval. 

• Processes invoices and prepare payments in accordance with organizational policies. 

• Processes monthly credit card transactions and ensures expenses are appropriate and coded accurately. 

• Maintains accurate and complete vendor records.  

• Investigates and resolves vendor and accounts payable inquiries. 

• Builds, implements, and maintains supporting documentation and effective internal controls relating to disbursements. 

• Performs tasks relating to annual Form 1099 reporting and other compliance requirements. 

Accounts Receivable and Cash Receipts (10%) 

• Processes and records cash receipts, including payments received by check, ACH, wire, and cash. 

• Performs remote deposits and coordinates bank deposits when necessary. 

• Maintains accurate and complete supporting documentation for cash receipts and customer payments. 

• Assists with receivable invoice accounts; investigates and resolves customer inquiries. 
• Drives collection efforts and manages accounts receivable records. 

Performs other duties, projects, research, and responsibilities as assigned (5%) 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Significant knowledge of accounting principles and practices, including but not limited to accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, and reconciliation procedures.  

• Demonstrated experience operating and managing accounting systems and financial software.  

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Outlook, and Word.  

• Intermediate Excel skills, including sorting, filtering, lookup functions, and pivot tables preferred. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.  

• Strong organizational and time management skills with exceptional attention to detail.  

• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines and exercise independent judgment and discretion in key responsibilities. 

• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and strong internal controls. 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills. 

• Ability to work collaboratively and remain flexible in a changing environment. 

• Demonstrated ability to perform as a team player and be self-motivated and resourceful. 

Certifications and/or Licenses: 

• CPA preferred, but not required.  

Minimum and Preferred Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. 

• Minimum 3-4 years of accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, bookkeeping, or related experience preferred. 

• Nonprofit accounting experience is a plus but not required. 

Work Environment & Physical Requirements: 

• Professional office environment. 

• Frequent use of computers, telephones, scanners, and other office equipment. 

• Majority of work performed while sitting at a desk. 

• Ability to use a computer keyboard and calculator. 

Position Type, Expected Hours of Work, and Travel: 

• Full-time position, generally 40 hours per week.  

• Typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  

• Minimal travel required. 

Equal Employment Opportunity. Point Blue is committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local law. Applicants and employees with disabilities may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act, California's Fair Employment and Housing Act, and local laws. Please inform a Point Blue representative if you need assistance completing any forms or to otherwise participate in the application process.