Job ID: 52698
Location: Columbia, South Carolina
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Last Updated: 15 days ago
About Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC)
The Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC) is one of several federal regional commissions designed to address economic distress and regional inequality in seven states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Serving 428 counties, SCRC invests in the region’s economic development through grant programs, conducting research, and creating income-producing opportunities – all to help communities address economic disparity and advance prosperity, rising above persistent poverty and limited infrastructure.
SCRC primarily operates through grant programs and cooperative agreements, to include the State Economic and Infrastructure Development (SEID) program. SEID grants fund projects led by local governments, nonprofits, and other community organizations. The Commission is led by a Federal Co-Chairperson (appointed by the President and confirmed by Congress) and Governors from the participating states. SCRC became fully operational in 2022 after leadership was established.
SCRC plays an important role in reducing regional disparities, supporting long-term economic growth, and helping communities in the Southeast become more competitive and resilient.
MISSION
SCRC’s mission is to help create jobs, build communities, and improve the lives of those who reside in the 428 counties within the seven-state region. To achieve this, SCRC works to:
- Create jobs and support business development
- Improve infrastructure (such as water systems, transportation, and broadband)
- Expand access to healthcare and essential services, and
- Strengthen workforce training and education opportunities
Critical Infrastructure: Expanding water, sewer, and transportation systems. Over 40% of SEID grants target basic infrastructure.
Workforce Development: Preparing workers for high-demand careers through training programs and community college partnerships.
Business & Economic Growth: Supporting entrepreneurs with capital access, technical assistance, and catalytic investment.
Health & Community Resilience: Expanding access to healthcare, housing, and environmental resources.
INVESTMENT METRICS
137 Total Projects
$53.34M SCRC Awards
$99.9M Matching Funds
$102.5M Total Project Costs
POSITION SUMMARY
The Accounting Specialist I will oversee core accounting operations including accounts payable and receivable oversight, general ledger review, financial reporting, and grant financial management. The Accounting Specialist I serves as a member of the Finance Team, supporting the Director of Finance in managing financial operations and ensuring compliance with federal financial regulations. This role provides operational leadership within the finance function and helps ensure the accuracy, transparency, and accountability of financial activities supporting the Commission’s mission.
As a member of the Finance Team, the Accounting Specialist I contributes to the development and refinement of financial systems, reporting practices, and internal controls and supporting collaboration across departments. This position supports the financial stewardship of federal investments that advance economic development, infrastructure, and workforce initiatives across the Southeast.
Successful candidates will be reliable, analytical thinkers who take initiative, strengthen financial processes, and support operational excellence across the organization.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Financial Operations Oversight
Accounts Payable and Receivable
• Oversee accounts payable and accounts receivable activities to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and appropriate documentation.
• Review payment documentation and financial transactions for completeness and compliance.
• Support the development of efficient financial workflows and operational processes.
General Ledger and Reconciliation
• Review general ledger activity for accuracy and completeness.
• Conduct reconciliations of financial records and supporting documentation.
• Identify discrepancies and coordinate resolution of financial issues.
Financial Record Management
• Maintain financial records in accordance with federal reporting and record retention requirements.
• Organize and review financial documentation to support audits and financial reviews.
• Assist with strengthening internal financial controls and documentation practices.
Grant Financial Management
• Coordinate with the Grants and Programs team to review grant budgets and financial documentation.
• Oversee the processing and review of grant reimbursement payments.
• Monitor financial activity for federally funded projects administered by SCRC.
• Communicate with internal staff, state partners, and grantees regarding payment status, reporting requirements, and financial documentation.
• Verify compliance of financial transactions with federal grant regulations and Commission policies.
Financial Reporting and Budget Support
• Prepare financial reports and supporting documentation for internal leadership, audits, and external reporting requirements.
• Conduct analysis of budgeted and actual expenditures and identify variances or emerging financial trends.
• Assist the Director of Finance with preparation of the Commission’s annual congressional budget submission.
• Support financial planning and coordination across departments as needed.
Compliance and Audit Support
• Assist in preparing documentation for financial audits and compliance reviews.
• Support implementation of financial policies and procedures that align with federal financial regulations, including Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200).
• Identify opportunities to strengthen financial procedures, reporting practices, and operational efficiency.
• Assist the Director of Finance in monitoring financial compliance and internal controls.
Supervision
• The Accounting Specialist I will assist in day-to-day oversight and direction to the Accounting Specialist II, including task assignment, workflow prioritization, and quality review of work products.
• The Director of Finance is the official supervisor of the Accounting Specialist I.
PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS
Within the first 12 months, the Accounting Specialist I is expected to:
• Successfully oversee assigned financial responsibilities including review of accounts payable, accounts receivable, and financial transaction processing.
• Maintain accurate and well-organized financial records in accordance with federal reporting and record retention requirements.
• Ensure timely review and processing of grant reimbursement requests and other financial transactions.
• Support preparation of financial reports, budget monitoring activities, and audit documentation.
• Contribute to strengthening financial procedures, internal controls, and financial reporting systems.
• Maintain a functional working relationship with the Accounting Specialist II, providing day-to-day task guidance and coordination while escalating performance concerns, supervisory decisions, and personnel matters to the Director of Finance.
• Employees are expected to work collaboratively across departments and maintain a high level of professionalism when engaging with state partners, grantees, and federal agencies.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of experience in accounting, finance, grant financial management, or a related role.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial processes including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger functions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial management software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret financial data and communicate findings clearly.
• Familiarity with federal financial regulations, including regulations, policies, and procedures applicable to governmental accounting, finance, and federal awards, including OMB 2 CFR Part 200 (Uniform Guidance), or the ability to quickly learn and apply federal compliance requirements.
• Strong interpersonal and professional communication skills with the ability to work effectively with internal staff, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to interpret financial guidance, regulations, and policy documents and apply them to operational activities.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic work environment.
The Accounting Specialist I will work out of the Columbia, SC office.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Demonstrated ability to apply technology and emerging digital tools, including artificial intelligence where appropriate, to strengthen financial analysis and operational efficiency.
• Experience working in federal, state, or local government finance or federally funded programs.
• Experience supporting financial reporting, budgeting, or audit preparation.
• Advanced Excel skills include pivot tables, lookup functions, or financial modeling techniques.
• Familiarity with the U.S. Standard General Ledger (USSGL) or federal financial reporting structures.
• Experience working in a developing organization or operational startup environment.
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and applicable Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) pronouncements.
COMPENSATION
The salary range for this position is $67,000 – $75,000. The Commission offers comprehensive benefits to complement the salary provided to staff.
TO APPLY
The position will remain open until August 10th at 5:00PM. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt by the FGP team. Candidates must meet the qualifications listed above to be considered.
Questions about the role may be directed to Emily James at Ej****@*gp.com.
