Cost Accountant – Federal Grants

Job Title: Cost Accountant – Federal Grants Location: Washington D.C (Remote) 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. Education • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required. • CPA not required. Qualifications & Required Experience • 3–5 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 preferred). • 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). • Good attention to detail and organizational skills. • Understanding of grant requests from hospitals, universities, tribal entities, and non-profits. • Direct and indirect cost allocation. Preferred Skills • Exposure to Cost Allocation Plans or indirect rate calculations. • Experience with grants management or financial systems. • Ability to analyze financial data and explain findings clearly. • Strong communication and teamwork skills. • Ability to manage multiple assignments in a compliance‑driven environment • Exposure to federal financial management standards (OMB Circulars, client Grants Policy Statement)