Join our team, sharing the latest scientific advances in light-based technologies from around the world, including biomedical optics, astronomy, lasers, solar, nanotechnology, and more! Make a difference by doing important work with a successful, international not-for-profit organization.
Full-time, 40 hours per week position available, with flexible work hours.
Description of duties
The Staff Accountant provides support to the accounting team by performing entry-level professional accounting duties that help ensure accurate financial records, timely reporting, and compliance with organizational policies and generally accepted accounting principles. Duties include preparing and posting journal entries, reconciling accounts, assisting with month-end close procedures, supporting accounts payable and receivable activity, preparing audit schedules, and maintaining documentation for financial transactions. This position is designed to develop accounting knowledge and professional skills that may lead to increased responsibility within the Accounting Department.
The Staff Accountant works with accounting staff and other departments research variances, resolve transaction questions, support budget-to-actual reporting, and improve the accuracy and efficiency of accounting processes. This role requires strong attention to detail, sound judgment, customer service, and the ability to learn and apply accounting principles in a collaborative team environment.
Core Competencies
Basic knowledge of accounting theory, financial statements, and generally accepted accounting principles.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to prepare, review, and reconcile financial data.
Ability to organize and complete multiple tasks while meeting established deadlines.
Ability to research discrepancies, ask appropriate questions, and recommend practical solutions.
Ability to work both independently and as a team member.
Strong customer service orientation and cultural sensitivity.
Willingness to learn new systems, processes, and accounting requirements
Education & Experience Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred; equivalent combination of education, accounting coursework, and relevant accounting experience may be substituted.
Entry-level role; internship, student employment, or up to 2 years of related accounting or office experience preferred.
Coursework in accounting, finance, auditing, taxation, or business systems preferred.
Experience with Excel spreadsheets and basic account reconciliation preferred.
Compensation and Benefits package include:
Competitive wages, annual discretionary bonus. Pay range depending on experience is $26.88/hr – 38.97/hr. This is a non-exempt position.
Medical, dental & vision benefits provided (100% employer paid premium for the employee, 75% employer paid premium for the dependents).
Defined retirement contribution: SPIE provides an automatic 5% contribution PLUS SPIE offers UP to 5% matching contributions and 25% vesting each year, 100% vested after 4 years.
Paid Time Off plan begins at 31 days per year.
Health savings accounts are partially funded by SPIE.
Flexible spending accounts for dependent care and dental/vision expenses available.
Employee life & disability insurance provided, dependent life insurance & Long-Term Care insurance available through payroll deduction.
Many learning & development opportunities including tuition reimbursement & leadership development.
Location: Physical work location in Bellingham, WA. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. The employer will not sponsor applicants for work visas.
Culture: At SPIE, we believe innovation thrives when people feel valued, supported, and empowered. We cultivate a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and continuous growth—where diverse perspectives are embraced, bold ideas are encouraged, and every voice matters.
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