Every day, United Way for Southeastern Michigan (UWSEM) works alongside community partners, donors, and nonprofits to create measurable, lasting change across Southeastern Michigan. By investing in programs that support education, economic stability, and health, UWSEM helps ensure individuals and families have the resources they need not just to get by, but to thrive. Our work is grounded in collaboration, accountability, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve.
This full‑time position offers a salary $75,000, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes major medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 403(b) retirement plan, short‑ and long‑term disability, AD\&D coverage, ASPCA pet insurance, a DoorDash discount, 20 days of paid time off per year, 12 paid holidays, and one floating holiday.
The Grant Accountant is responsible for the financial setup, recording, monitoring, reporting, and ensuring that grant funds are used appropriately and in compliance with the regulations set by funders and UWSEM policies. This position also plays a key role in grant budgeting, reconciliation, and identifying financial risks and variances throughout the grant lifecycle.
This role partners closely with program and finance leaders to ensure strong financial stewardship of grant‑funded work across United Way for Southeastern Michigan. The position is responsible for grant budgeting, setup, accounting, reporting, and compliance, supporting the full lifecycle of public and private grants.
Key responsibilities include developing and reviewing grant budgets, setting up awards in the financial system, interpreting grant agreements, and monitoring spending against approved budgets. The role prepares journal entries, performs reconciliations, analyzes variances, and maintains documentation to support audits and compliance reviews. It also prepares accurate financial reports and invoices for grantors, ensuring expenditures are allowable and aligned with funder requirements.
In addition, this role identifies financial risks, communicates insights to internal stakeholders, and collaborates with program, IT, and business teams to resolve system challenges and improve reporting. The position serves as a financial resource to project staff, providing guidance on grant regulations and best practices to support compliance and mission impact.
Oversee the financial closeout of completed grants, including final financial reporting, reconciliation of grant records, and verification that all financial obligations and required documentation are complete and compliant with funder requirements. The ideal candidate brings at least five years of accounting experience in a nonprofit environment, with a strong foundation in GAAP and nonprofit accounting principles. They demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills, paired with exceptional organizational abilities and a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail. Proficiency in Blackbaud Financial Edge is essential, along with advanced capabilities in Microsoft Office 365, particularly Excel and data analysis. This role requires the ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with cross‑functional teams, analyze and solve complex financial and business data challenges, and manage multiple priorities in a deadline‑driven environment. Education \& Experience Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
5\+ years of experience in accounting or finance, with a focus on grant management or nonprofit accounting.
Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel, with the ability to analyze financial data effectively.
Work Environment \& Schedule:
This is a remote or hybrid role with alternating time between work from home and onsite at our Detroit location.