Accounting Specialist

Thank you for your interest in joining the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. We’re looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Accounting Specialist to help guide our financial operations and support our mission of making the Cedar Rapids region one of the top places to live and work in the United States.

What you’ll be doing in this role

You’ll play a key role in ensuring the organization’s financial health, accuracy, and compliance. This position works closely with leadership and the Board, serving as a trusted financial resource across the organization.

In this role, you will:

• Safeguard organizational assets and ensure accurate, timely financial records in line with current accounting standards
• Implement and maintain strong internal controls, policies, and compliance practices
• Serve as the primary financial liaison to the Executive Leadership Team and Board of Directors
• Lead the annual budgeting process and provide regular reporting on budget vs. actuals
• Identify and address budget variances, providing recommendations and solutions
• Conduct financial analysis for projects, programs, and strategic initiatives
• Manage banking relationships, credit resources, investments, and cash flow
• Act as the main point of contact for auditors and financial partners
• Oversee payroll processes, including tax filings and retirement plan funding
• Handle accounts payable/receivable and all related billing activities
• Complete month-end reconciliations, reporting, and interunit entries
• Review contracts for financial accuracy and ensure adherence to financial obligations

You’re probably a match if you have

• A Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, Finance, or Accounting
• 2–5 years of relevant accounting or finance experience
• CPA designation (preferred, but not required)
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting, tax reporting, and payroll laws
• Solid analytical and problem-solving skills
• Clear and effective communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with accounting systems
• The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

About the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance

The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance is a regional economic development organization focused on driving economic, population, and workforce growth. We work collaboratively with businesses, community leaders, and public partners to position the Cedar Rapids region as one of the top places to live, work, and do business in the United States.

A glimpse of what we offer

• Salary range: $60,000 – $80,000 annually (based on experience)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer contribution
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities, including CPA support
• A collaborative, mission-driven work environment
• Opportunities to make a real impact in the local community

Pay: $60,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person