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.
Please note this position is located in Bozeman, MT and that relocation assistance is not currently offered for this position.
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
- Required Qualifications
- Education & Experience: Associate’s degree in accounting/business administration (or equivalent experience) plus 2–3 years of hands-on bookkeeping experience.
- Multi-Currency Experience: Experience processing transactions in multiple currencies (specifically US and Canadian dollars).
- 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
- 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
Compensation Range: $62,000 - $78,000 USD
Physical Demands and Working Conditions
The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Minimal to light physical effort is generally required in performing duties in the office environment
- Sedentary work that primarily involves remaining in a stationary position more than 50% of the time
- Occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
- Constantly operates a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer.
This job description serves as a general guide and does not include every single task, duty, or responsibility required of the employee. Employees will be expected to undertake and assist with other duties as necessary. The job description is subject to change in response to the organization's evolving business needs.
PBI is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.
The information in this document is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be used or relied upon as such. Because applicable laws vary, anyone seeking legal advice should consult a qualified attorney in their state, province, or territory.
Pay: $62,000.00 - $78,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Disability insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
Experience:
- Accounting: 3 years (Preferred)
- Multiple currency accounting: 3 years (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
