Are you passionate about interpreting and applying complex U.S. GAAP standards? CFA Institute is seeking a Senior Technical Accountant to join our Finance Division, where you’ll focus on technical accounting research, the development of accounting policies, and support for complex transactions. This is a non-operational role — perfect for candidates with experience in public accounting, technical accounting advisory, or internal policy groups who thrive on analysis, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration.
This position is not responsible for GL functions, reconciliations, or month-end close activities. Instead, you will play a key role in shaping how we interpret and apply accounting standards organization-wide.
What You’ll DoTechnical Accounting Research & Advisory (50%)
Conduct in-depth research on U.S. GAAP standards (ASC 606, 842, etc.) to evaluate implications of complex transactions
Draft and maintain technical accounting memos and position papers to support conclusions and disclosures
Analyze contracts and proposed business initiatives in collaboration with legal, tax, FP&A, and other stakeholders
Monitor changes in U.S. GAAP and contribute to impact assessments and implementation guidance
Serve as a subject matter resource on key accounting topics and policy decisions
Audit Support & Financial Reporting (30%)
Prepare and maintain documentation to support external audits, including analysis packages and financial statement footnotes
Coordinate responses to auditor inquiries on technical matters
Provide internal stakeholders with clear, defensible accounting interpretations backed by standard references
Policy Implementation & Internal Controls (20%)
Support the development and consistent application of internal accounting policies
Document accounting-related controls and assess related risks in coordination with internal teams
Help ensure accurate and uniform treatment of complex accounting areas across the organization
What You’ll Bring
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting
CPA license required
5–7 years of accounting experience in a corporate or public accounting technical accounting function
Deep familiarity with U.S. GAAP standards, especially ASC 606 (Revenue), ASC 842 (Leases), ASC 958 (Not-for-Profit), ASC 810 (Consolidation), and ASC 815 (Derivatives)
Demonstrated experience researching accounting standards and developing formal technical memos
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to interpret and apply complex guidance
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting or leading external audit engagements on complex accounting issues
Prior work in accounting advisory or a technical accounting/policy role within a complex organization
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong organizational and project management abilities
Comfort working independently, with intellectual curiosity and the confidence to ask questions
Note: This role does not include GL accounting, account reconciliations, or month-end close responsibilities. It is best suited to professionals who enjoy technical research and writing, and want to focus on the application and interpretation of U.S. GAAP.
Why Join Us?At CFA Institute, you'll be part of a mission-driven organization with a global footprint. We offer a flexible, inclusive, and innovative work environment that promotes growth and professional development. You’ll collaborate with people who are passionate about finance, integrity, and positive global impact.
At CFA Institute, we are committed to transparency and equity in our hiring process. In compliance with wage transparency laws in many of the jurisdictions in which we recruit, we provide the following information regarding compensation for this position:
Expected salary range: $85,000 - $105,000 annually
Other benefits include eligibility for annual incentives, 12% pension employer contribution, and competitive medical benefits.
All salary ranges are subject to adjustment based on experience, education, and other factors relevant to the position. CFA Institute is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.
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About CFA Institute
CFA Institute are the global leader in investment excellence and ethics. With nearly 200,000 charterholders across 160 markets, we drive professional growth, ethical behavior, and better markets. We care about our employees’ well-being, offering industry-leading benefits like:
Comprehensive health coverage for you and your family
Generous leave and time off
Competitive retirement plans
Flexible work options
Wellness, education, and support programs
If you feel this opportunity could be the next step in your career, we encourage you to click “Apply” and complete our three-minute application.
Be part of a team committed to putting investors first and growing economies. Follow us @CFAInstitute on LinkedIn and X.
Important Message: Your application must clearly demonstrate how you meet the requirements as CFA Institute cannot make assumptions about your education, experience, or location. We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. CFA Institute prohibits both discrimination and harassment with regard to all identifying characteristics: any individual employee, group of employees, or prospective employee on the basis of race, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, religion, creed or belief, age, marital or partnership status, marital or family status, care giver status, pregnancy and maternity, sexual and other reproductive health decisions, physical abilities/qualities, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, predisposing genetic characteristic, military or veteran status, status as a victim or witness of domestic violence or sex offense or stalking, unemployment status, infectious disease carrier status, migrant worker status, educational background, socio-economic status, geographic location and culture or any other basis protected by applicable law. This policy impacts all aspects of employment, including but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, development, promotion, demotion, layoff, recall, furlough, transfer, leave of absence, and dismissal. This is a global policy that applies to all CFA Institute employees, regardless of location.
If, due to a disability or current medical condition, you need an accommodation or assistance to complete a job application, you can request one at any stage of the recruitment process. Please send an email to [email protected] noting the accommodations or assistance you are requesting. Please do not include any medical or health information in this email. We will review your request and contact you to discuss the possible options and arrangements. We will try our best to provide you with an accommodation or assistance that meets your needs and respects your preferences.
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