Project Accountant

• Position Title: NRD-Project Accountant, Early Grades (Grades 1–3)
• Project: I1d-NRD Project
• Duty Station: Konso, Karat Twon, Konso Zone
• Travel Requirement: Frequent travel to the project target woredas of Konso Zuria
• Reports to: Zonal Program Coordinator
• Functional relationship: Regional Program Manager & Finance Team, CO Finance Team, Procurement and Logistics
• Technical Liaison: Konso Zonal Finance Department, Woreda Education Offices, and NRD, including other project partners
• Contract Type: Full Time

Position Summary

The Project Accountant will be responsible for ensuring sound financial management, accountability, and compliance for the I1d–NRD Project at the zonal level. The position supports the effective implementation of the early grade (Grades 1–3) numeracy research and intervention activities by providing accurate financial planning, tracking, reporting, and controls.

The role requires close coordination with program, MEAL, and finance teams to ensure that project expenditures are aligned with approved budgets, donor requirements, and Imagine1day financial policies. The Project Accountant will play a critical role in promoting value for money, timely reporting, and audit readiness throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Management and Budget Control

• Manage day-to-day financial operations of the I1d–NRD Project at zonal level.
• Monitor project expenditures against approved budgets and work plans.
• Support budget forecasting, revisions, and cash-flow planning in coordination with program teams.
• Ensure efficient and cost-effective use of project resources.

2. Financial Reporting and Documentation

• Prepare and submit accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and ad hoc financial reports.
• Maintain complete and well-organized financial documentation, including vouchers, receipts, contracts, and supporting documents.
• Support consolidation of financial reports for donor and internal reporting purposes.

3. Compliance and Internal Controls

• Ensure compliance with Imagine1day financial policies, donor regulations, and Ethiopian legal requirements.
• Implement and maintain strong internal control systems to minimize financial risk and ensure accountability.
• Review financial transactions to ensure accuracy, eligibility, and proper authorization.

4. Payments, Advances, and Liquidation

• Process payments, staff advances, and operational expenses in a timely and accurate manner.
• Ensure proper liquidation of advances and follow up on outstanding balances.
• Support procurement-related financial processes in coordination with logistics and procurement staff.

5. Audit and Financial Review Support

• Support internal and external audits, spot checks, and financial reviews.
• Respond promptly to audit queries and support implementation of audit recommendations.
• Ensure audit readiness through proper record-keeping and compliance monitoring.

6. Coordination and Capacity Support

• Work closely with program and MEAL teams to align financial planning with implementation schedules.
• Provide basic financial guidance to non-finance staff on budget management and compliance.
• Support capacity building of project staff on financial procedures and documentation requirements.

  7. Safeguarding Commitment

Imagine1day has zero tolerance for violations of Child and Adult Safeguarding, Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, and the Code of Conduct. In the process of recruitment, selection, and appointment, Imagine1day implements a range of procedures and actions, including Criminal Background Checks/ International vetting/Certificates of good conduct to ensure children and vulnerable adults are safeguarded and abuse is prevented.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 5–7 years of relevant experience in project accounting, preferably within NGO or donor-funded projects.
• Experience managing education or research-related projects is an asset.
• Strong knowledge of financial reporting, budgeting, and internal control systems.
• Familiarity with donor compliance requirements and audit processes.
• Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel.

Core Competencies

• Financial Planning and Budget Management
• Accuracy, Attention to Detail, and Integrity
• Knowledge of Donor Compliance and Internal Controls
• Strong Organizational and Time-Management Skills
• Effective Communication and Coordination
• Problem Solving and Accountability
• Commitment to Transparency and Ethical Financial Management