UTC-5 to UTC-8 timezones required for team collaboration Remote (Global) USD 105,194 – 159,405 / year

Wikimedia Foundation is hiring a Lead Technical Accountant

Lead Technical Accountant

Role Overview

This position leads technical accounting strategy and financial reporting for a global nonprofit organization. Reporting to the Senior Manager of Accounting and Financial Reporting, the Lead Technical Accountant serves as the primary resource for complex accounting matters, ensuring accurate financial disclosures, compliance with US GAAP, and alignment with nonprofit-specific standards. You will play a central role in audits, Form 990 preparation, and the ongoing refinement of internal controls and accounting policies.

Key Responsibilities

  • Translate intricate accounting principles into practical guidance for internal teams and leadership.
  • Develop, maintain, and improve accounting policies and financial governance frameworks to support transparency and regulatory compliance.
  • Lead critical aspects of annual financial audits for both the organization and its endowment, including audit documentation, schedule preparation, and coordination with external auditors.
  • Support the accurate and timely filing of Form 990 by collecting, verifying, and reviewing required financial data.
  • Research and analyze new accounting standards, document findings, and lead cross-departmental implementation efforts, including planning, timelines, and execution support.
  • Evaluate and strengthen internal controls over financial reporting, identifying weaknesses and recommending sustainable improvements in line with COSO standards.
  • Drive process optimization initiatives within the accounting function, addressing operational, regulatory, and systems-related challenges.
  • Advise internal teams on revenue and expense recognition, ensuring proper accounting treatment and alignment with policy.
  • Assist treasury functions by monitoring investment activity, tracking cash flows, and contributing to liquidity forecasting.

Qualifications

  • Active CPA license or equivalent international credential with demonstrated US GAAP expertise.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, including time in public accounting.
  • Deep knowledge of US GAAP, nonprofit accounting practices, and financial reporting requirements.
  • Proven experience with Sarbanes-Oxley compliance, including control design, documentation, and testing.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to research issues, form sound conclusions, and communicate them clearly in technical memos and policy documents.
  • Exceptional organizational skills, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines.
  • Experience preparing or supporting audited financial statements and Form 990 filings is highly preferred.

Work Environment

This is a fully remote role with a global team. Candidates must be located in or able to work during the UTC-5 to UTC-8 time zones to support collaboration. The organization operates remotely across more than 40 countries, emphasizing inclusivity, transparency, and mission-driven work. Employees are expected to thrive in a diverse, adaptable, and results-focused environment.

Compensation & Benefits

The anticipated annual salary range for U.S. applicants is $105,194 to $159,405, with adjustments based on location for non-U.S. hires. The organization offers a competitive, equitable compensation structure and a remote-first workplace with access to region-specific benefits. As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all dimensions of employment.

Required Skills
Financial ReportingDocumentation
About company
Wikimedia Foundation
The nonprofit organization that operates Wikipedia and the other Wikimedia free knowledge projects. It hosts Wikipedia and the Wikimedia projects, builds software experiences for reading, contributing, and sharing Wikimedia content, supports the volunteer communities and partners who make Wikimedia possible, and advocates for policies that enable Wikimedia and free knowledge to thrive.
All jobs at Wikimedia Foundation Visit website
Job Details
Category other
Posted 2 months ago