About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra. 

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Why Join Us

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits to all full-time employees including: 

• Staff offers for discount tickets
• Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment)
• Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA)
• Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire
• 11 paid holidays per year 
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLA
• Flexible work arrangements
• We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2023 staff video!

Job Description

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is seeking a Senior Accounting Manager, Federal and Private Grants to oversee accounting and reporting of the Center’s Federal Awards and Private Grants.  This position will be responsible for reviewing charges against the grant for allowable and unallowable costs, tracking the Federal source for allowable costs, working with Programming and Development personnel during pre-Award, Award, Implementation, and Close out phases of the Grant Cycle, ensuring the organization’s Grants Administration Architecture (SAM, G5, Grants.gov, etc.) is maintained, as well as leading the institution’s annual Indirect Cost Recovery Rate negotiation process.  In this role, the Senior Accounting Manager, Federal and  Private Grants will also work with Programming, Development, and Finance staff to ensure the optimal use of Federal and non-Federal funds (including private grants, endowment support, and contributions revenues).  This position will report to a senior member of the Finance and Accounting team and work closely with colleagues in Development and Programming.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with Program and Development staff on grant applications, especially budgeting
• Educate Program and Development staff on allowable and unallowable expenditures
• Review expenses charged against Federal Grants for compliance with Federal Cost Principles
• Ensure accuracy of accounting records, direct and indirect expenses, time and effort reporting, source of funds, revenues, receivables, and cash application
• Recognize revenues in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
• Maintain an accurate and up-to-date inventory of Federal grants and calendar
• Prepare grant financial reporting and process SF-425 federal reports and SF-270
• Prepare journal entries as needed
• Assist program staff to track program expenses
• Preparation of grant audit work papers including SEFA report
• Lead organization’s annual Indirect Cost Recovery Rate negotiation
• Provide ad hoc financial reports as requested
• Support the Finance Team with special projects
• Advise on ways to strengthen internal controls over expenditures of federal awards

Key Qualifications

• B.A. or B.S. degree in accounting or finance or 7 or more years applicable experience required;
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a grants administration role or single  audit experience preferred;
• Knowledge of OMB Uniform Guidance, cost principles, and audit requirements (preferred)
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and highly organized approach to work
• Ability to develop a work plan, coordinate with others, and achieve objectives
• Ability to communicate financial information with non-financial professionals
• Ability to work well individually and with a team
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
• Experience with Lawson and Oracle Netsuite a plus
• Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area