Description

Established in 2015 by Bill Gates and a coalition of private investors concerned about the impacts of accelerating climate change, Breakthrough Energy supports the innovations that will lead the world to net-zero emissions. We are building on the proven model of public-private partnerships that Gates has already used to transform health, education, and public welfare around the world. Breakthrough Energy is a network of entities and initiatives, including investment funds, nonprofit and philanthropic programs, and policy efforts linked by a common commitment to scale the technologies we need to achieve a path to net zero emissions by 2050. We are encouraging the development of new net-zero energy technologies, championing policies that speed innovation from lab to market, and bringing together governments, research institutions, private companies, and investors to expand and enhance clean-energy investment. Breakthrough Energy celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.

Breakthrough Energy, a pioneering organization at the forefront of combating climate change through innovative solutions, is seeking an exceptional and detail-oriented Senior Accountant to join our dynamic finance team. In this critical role, you will ensure the accuracy and efficiency of our financial processes, playing a key part in our mission. You will collaborate closely with the Controller and Finance Director, handling essential daily, monthly, and annual accounting tasks and driving continuous improvement in our sophisticated finance and accounting operations. Join us and contribute to transformative change while advancing your career in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Daily Accounting Operations:

• Perform daily entries (vendor bill/grant processing and payment, reimbursements, credit card transactions, journal entries), ensuring alignment with contractual requirements, GAAP, and budgetary reporting needs.
• Use a customer service mentality to represent Breakthrough Energy with vendors/grantees (during vendor/grantee onboarding, timely processing of payments, etc.) and our employees (questions on travel, policies and procedures, etc.)
• Work cross-functionally with Legal & Grants Management, IT, and HR as needed to plan proactively or resolve issues timely as needed.
• Troubleshoot and communicate as system-related issues arise to ensure appropriate and timely resolution in support of our accounting close process and reporting needs.
  
  

Monthly Accounting Hygiene:

• Perform monthly accounting hygiene work with discipline, including balance sheet reconciliations, reviewing credit card transactions over 30 days old, and other routine tasks.
• Inform processes and systems to maintain consistency, accuracy, and efficiency.
  
  

Analysis and Reporting:

• Provide inputs into tax reporting and financial statement audits, ensuring accurate and compliant reporting.
• Support other compliance reporting requirements like quarterly and annual filing requirements in various jurisdictions, consensus requests, etc.
  
  

Year-End Processes:

• Perform year-end processes, including revenue releases, donated services analyses, and other tasks as needed.
  
  

System Use and Improvements:

• Provide insights into system use and recommend improvements to meet and scale the organization's needs
  
  

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• Deep knowledge and experience in accounting or related roles with a preference of at least 5 years of relevant experience including 2-3 years of public accounting experience.
• Experience with daily accounting operations, data entry, and familiarity with compliance and reporting requirements.
• Proven track record of adeptly researching new topics, including accounting guidance and ERP software functionalities, demonstrating the capability to swiftly acquire knowledge and propose innovative solutions.
• Proficiency in accounting software (experience with NetSuite and Salesforce is a plus) and intermediate to advanced skills in Microsoft Excel.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
• Ability to self-start with a desire to constantly improve yourself, your work, and learn from those around you.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Washington DC area, San Francisco Bay Area, or Seattle area is the preferred location for this position. Candidates must be based in a state where Breakthrough Energy is registered or already has an established presence.
  
  

The starting salary range for this position is $110,000 to $120,000 annually. Salary offers within this range will vary depending on several factors that include but are not limited to education, experience, skills, relevant certifications, and other qualifications. Employees may also be eligible for bonuses based on individual performance.

In addition to compensation, we offer a comprehensive benefits package. Our package includes paid medical, dental, vision, life, disability insurance, annual leave, sick leave and a 401(k) program for eligible employees. Our commitment to the wellbeing and support of our staff is reflected in the comprehensive coverage of our offers.

Breakthrough Energy celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. Breakthrough Energy is an equal opportunity employer. BE does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or any other non-merit-based factors. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Breakthrough Energy will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Craig Staples at craig@breakthroughenergy.org.