Description

To apply please send a resume and cover letter to employment@pbears.org or via Indeed.

Polar Bears International’s mission is to inspire action to protect polar bears and their Arctic sea ice home. Through research, education, advocacy, and international collaboration, we work to deepen global understanding of the Arctic, the threats to its future, and the vital connection between this remote region and our global climate. We serve as the leading global resource for information on polar bears and their habitat and as a trusted voice on the impacts of climate change on polar bears and the Arctic sea ice they depend on. By conducting, supporting, and sharing scientific research, educating international audiences, and fostering collaboration and mentorship, we empower informed action to advance solutions and help ensure a future where polar bears thrive on Arctic sea ice.

Job Summary

The Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing and participating in full-cycle A/P, A/R, posting/reviewing GL, managing monthly credit card statements, and the day-to-day financial transactions of Polar Bears International (‘PBI’), ensuring accurate records of cash flow and financial statements. They will assist with cash management, financial reporting, and analyze those and other reports to provide insights for decision-making. They will work closely with the Sr Director of Operations and an outsourced controller to compile financial reports and maintain a general ledger, including accounting, bookkeeping, accounts receivable and accounts payable. This role requires proficiency in accounting software, strong time management, and problem-solving skills to identify discrepancies and support PBI's financial health.

Duties

Manage A/P, A/R and Staff Credit Cards (.50)

Responsible for general bookkeeping functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general accounting in both US and foreign currencies
Assist with monitoring schedules for accounts payable and accounts receivable
Post payments against Accounts Receivable
Collect receipts from staff and ensure proper coding of expenses
Conduct monthly reconciliation of all US and Canadian bank accounts and credit cards
Review and track outstanding credit card receipts and resolve with appropriate staff members
Ensure all staff adhere to PBI’s financial policies and procedures
Respond to staff questions regarding payment and expense coding

Reporting (.25)

Collaborate with the development team to complete a bridge report between the accounting software and the donor management system
Maintain the general ledger, including posting and reviewing entries, and month-end account reconciliations
Provide information and assist with preparing monthly detailed financial reports, cash flow projections, facilitating audits, and handling tax filings like IRS Form 990 and other reconciliations for timely financial reporting
Prepare 1099 forms for US vendors and provide T4A list for the Canadian accounting firm
General Accounting (.25)
Maintain internal controls and safeguards for accounting practices
Maintain an orderly and accurate electronic and hardcopy accounting filing system
Maintain the chart of accounts
Share responsibility for the overall financial system of the organization, ensuring the security, documentation, and integrity of financial information with regular backups of accounting software
Analyze the organization’s operations to identify financial benefits and improve efficiency
Analyze, manage, and maintain all financial / accounting system security measures
Collaborate with the Controller, Human Resources Manager, Director of Operations, and/or Executive Director on accounting-related projects
Provide clerical and administrative support to management as requested
Participate in staff meetings and trainings with Bozeman-based and remote staff

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Education & Experience: Associate’s degree in accounting/business administration (or equivalent experience) plus 2–3 years of hands-on bookkeeping experience.
• Knowledge and application of generally accepted accounting principles.
• Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing and Excel, with an aptitude for Apple products, Microsoft
• Office, Google Drive, and other shared document programs
• Ability to demonstrate levels of integrity, trustworthiness, flexibility, compassion, and humour that are necessary to address the practicalities of a
• growing nonprofit
• Excellent written and oral communication, reading comprehension, writing and speaking skills
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a group
• Ability to share knowledge, communicate ideas, and collaborate with diverse and remote teams
• Passion for and knowledge of issues in wildlife conservation and the Arctic
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with Excel/Google Sheets, shared cloud drives, and modern cloud-based accounting software.
• Core Competencies: Exceptional attention to detail, strong ethical boundaries, and clear verbal/written communication skills.
• Mission Alignment: Passion for wildlife conservation and Arctic ecosystem issues.

Preferred Qualifications

• Multi-Currency Experience: Experience processing transactions in multiple currencies (specifically US and Canadian dollars).
• Additional education and experience in finance, business, or business management
• Software Familiarity: Working knowledge of Sage Intacct and modern AP automation tools (e.g., Ramp, Tipalti).
• Nonprofit Sector: Experience with nonprofit accounting, donor/grant tracking, and cross-border US/Canadian entities. Polar Bears International is a registered nonprofit in the US and Canada.
• Experience with nonprofit donor CRM integration