Assistant Grant Accountant

1. About Aquaya

The Aquaya Institute (‘Aquaya’) is a nonprofit research and consulting organization dedicated to advancing global health through universal access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). We deliver critical insights, data, and tools to support informed policy, program, and financing decisions. This knowledge helps to secure safe water and sanitation for vulnerable populations, improving human health and well-being.

Aquaya’s portfolio spans public health, economics, technology development, and social entrepreneurship in over 20 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. We have published or contributed to over 40 peer-reviewed research articles and produced numerous other reports and publications.

Aquaya maintains an office in Nairobi, Kenya, and Accra, Ghana. Staff members are also in the US, France, Uganda, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Morocco. Many of our projects are carried out in collaboration with academic research groups and expert consultants.

2. About the position

We are recruiting a full-time position based remotely (40 hours/week). The Assistant Grant Accountant will report to Aquaya’s Grant Accountant. This position will primarily work on Aquaya’s U.S. Federal and other awards and subawards. The Assistant Grant Accountant will provide a crucial link between the technical and finance functions within the project to ensure that Uniform Guidance, as well as internal and project rules and policies are followed in all aspects of program implementation.

Role and Responsibilities

·       Assisting with post-award grant compliance, including ensuring costs are within budgets and allowable.

·       Ensures grant accounting records and supporting documentation are maintained in good order.

·       Monitors internal monthly project reports to ensure compliance with U.S. Federal guidelines.

·       Prepares monthly and quarterly funder financial reports in a timely manner.

·       Assists in the completion of all aspects of the annual Single Audit report.

·       Learns and maintains knowledge of current U.S. Federal guidance and issues related to grants and audits of non-profit organizations.

·       Adheres to Aquaya policies and procedures and safeguards Aquaya assets.

·       Assist the Grant Accountant in developing the U.S. Federal grant compliance capacity of all relevant staff and sub-awardees, providing training and policy guidance as needed.

·       Monitor project budget to actual expenditures and report issues encountered to the Grant Accountant.

·       Work with the Grant Accountant to ensure the accurate tracking and recording of award expenditures and financial reports.

3. Criteria for the position

The following qualifications are necessary for this position except as noted:

·       At least three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, auditing, or finance with a recognized organization.

·       Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, mathematics, or a related field is preferred.

·       Excellent computer skills and extensive experience using Microsoft Excel.

·       Excellent math skills.

·       Fluency in English.

·       Knowledge and understanding of accounting principles.

·       Knowledge of U.S. government policies, procedures, and reporting requirements for U.S. Federal awards, including Uniform Guidance, [2 CFR Sec. 200] is preferred.

·       Experience in the fiscal management of prime awards (grants or cooperative agreements) from U.S. Federal government agencies is preferred.

·       Passion for numbers, adept at meticulous work, and comfortable with repetitive tasks is required.

We are also looking for the following skills and attributes:

·       Demonstrated experience coordinating and collaborating with various stakeholders.

·       Previous work experience working with staff from other countries preferred.

·       Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

·       Strong attention to detail and accuracy in financial recordkeeping and reporting.

·       Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.

·       Proven ability to work closely with a small team and to successfully manage multiple and changing priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, while maintaining a positive and productive attitude and a good sense of humor!

This is a full-time position, with an initial 3-month probationary period. Aquaya offers competitive wages that are commensurate with experience. The salary range for this role is $50,000-60,000 USD.

Benefits include:

• Paid time off including sick days and paid holidays.
• No- or low-cost medical insurance.
• Remote work stipend.