About the Middle East Institute
Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is the oldest Washington-based institution dedicated solely to the study of the Middle East. It is a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, educational and professional development services, and a hub for engaging with the region's arts and culture.
Position Title: Full-Charge Bookkeeper
Company: Middle East Institute
Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Location: On-Site | Washington, DC
Salary Range: $50,000 - $55,000
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Full-Charge Bookkeeper to join our team. The Full-Charge Bookkeeper will be responsible for handling the day-to-day aspects of the accounting process, from recording financial transactions to supporting audit processes. The ideal candidate should have a thorough understanding of accounting principles, be well-versed in accrual and grant accounting, demonstrate a strong work ethic, and have the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Key Responsibilities:
- Accounts Payable and Receivable: handle invoice processing, ensure the accuracy of billing data, and coordinate payments. Monitor invoices and liaise with vendors and customers for timely payment and dispute resolution.
- General Ledger Maintenance: Record financial transactions accurately, review entries for proper classification, and post journal entries as needed to adjust account balances.
- Financial Reconciliation: Regularly reconcile all applicable accounts including bank accounts, credit card statements, and vendor accounts, and resolve discrepancies.
- Financial Record Maintenance: Ensure accuracy of financial records, and assist with month-end and year-end closing processes, including adjusting entries and reconciliations.
- Payroll Support: Assist with processing payroll, ensuring timely and accurate disbursement of payments to employees and contractors, and maintaining payroll records in compliance with record-keeping requirements.
- Financial Controls & Regulatory Compliance: Assist in implementing internal controls, support preparation for internal and external audits, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Qualifications:
- Degree in accounting or a related field
- 3+ years of proven experience in bookkeeping or accounting roles
- Proficiency in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and strong knowledge of accrual and grant accounting.
- Expertise in Microsoft Excel and QuickBooks.
- Familiarity with payroll processing systems, Salesforce, and Authorize.net is a plus.
- Strong work ethic and commitment to accuracy and integrity in financial reporting.
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively within a team.
- Great communication skills are important for interacting with colleagues, clients, vendors, and other stakeholders.
Reporting Structure:
This position reports directly to the Finance Director and collaborates closely with other Finance and Administrative Team members.