Overview

The Cost Accountant ensures the integrity of federal grant expenditures by evaluating cost allocation methodologies, validating financial data, and ensuring compliance with 2 CFR Part 200 and client requirements. This role supports sound financial stewardship across hospitals, universities, tribal governments, and non‑profits.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and analyze Cost Allocation Plans (CAPs) and Indirect Cost Rate Proposals (IDCRPs).
• Validate that costs are:
• Allowable and reasonable
• Properly documented
• Compliant with federal grant requirements
• Reconcile cost data with financial statements, budgets, and supporting records.
• Identify and exclude unallowable costs from calculations.
• Assist in evaluating cost distribution methods across multiple programs.
• Support preparation of financial reports, findings, and recommendations.
• Maintain accurate spreadsheets, tracking tools, and financial records.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders (including grant recipients).
• Familiarity with federal cost principles, internal controls, and risk assessment.
• Experience with federal audits (Single Audit, OIG, GAO).
• Provide basic guidance on cost allocation and grant compliance.
• Federal Government experience is mandatory.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA not required.

Qualifications & Required Experience

• 7+ years of experience in accounting, finance, or grants management.
• Hands-on experience with direct and indirect cost allocation.
• Experience working with or supporting grant requests from:
• Hospitals
• Universities
• Tribal entities
• Non-profit organizations
• Understanding of federal grant regulations (2 CFR Part 200)
• Knowledge of GAAP and basic cost accounting principles.
• Strong Excel, this includes pivot tables, lookups, data validation, and error‑checking. and data analysis skills.
• Experience with financial systems (UFMS, PMS, GrantSolutions, or similar).