Bookkeeper (Part-Time, Approximately 30 Hours/Month)

Oak Park, IL

About Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation (UTUUC)

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation is a vibrant, justice-centered faith community located in Oak Park, Illinois. Centered on the historic Unity Temple—designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site—UTUUC brings together spiritual reflection, community engagement, and a deep commitment to equity and social justice. Our work spans worship, lifelong learning, community partnerships, and stewardship of one of the world’s most significant architectural landmarks.

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and dependable part-time Bookkeeper to support our financial operations. This role averages 30 hours per month and is ideal for someone who enjoys structured, accurate work while also being adaptable to the evolving needs of a dynamic nonprofit environment.

This position supports the Director of Finance & Operations and plays a key role in ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial information that underpins our mission.

To apply for this position, please email your resume and cover letter to jobs@unitytemple.org.

Why This Role?

This is an opportunity to apply your financial skills in a mission-driven setting where your work directly supports community impact, social justice efforts, and the preservation of an architectural landmark of global significance. This role is designed to be predictable and sustainable at approximately 30 hours per month, with clear expectations and defined processes.

What You’ll Do

Bookkeeping & Financial Records (≈40%)

- Reconcile bank and credit card accounts on a monthly basis
- Prepare and post journal entries (accruals, reclasses, adjustments)
- Maintain the general ledger and supporting schedules
- Lead month-end close processes, ensuring completeness and accuracy
- Ensure financial records are audit-ready

Donor & Contribution Management (≈25%)

- Process and classify contributions from multiple channels (online, checks, events, etc.)
- Record gifts in Realm (ACS), ensuring accurate donor attribution and fund designation
- Support accurate donor records to enable year-end giving statements

Payroll Processing (≈15%)

- Compile and review timesheet data for payroll processing
- Prepare payroll inputs and coordinate processing through Paychex
- Review payroll with the Director of Finance & Operations prior to submission
- Record payroll journal entries and maintain related documentation

Bill Pay & Disbursements (≈10%)

- Monitor autopay accounts to ensure timely processing
- Execute online bill payments for select vendors
- Prepare physical checks for vendors without electronic payment options
- Maintain organized records of all disbursements

Other Duties (≈10%)

- Support year-end processes (e.g., 1099 preparation)
- Maintain and update process documentation
- Assist with light administrative tasks (e.g., ordering supplies)
- Provide general financial/operational support as needed

How You’ll Work

This role is not just about completing tasks—it’s about how the work gets done:

- Exceptional attention to detail – accuracy is foundational; small errors can have outsized impacts
- Strong time management – ability to balance precision with meeting deadlines
- Ability to work independently – comfortable operating with minimal oversight once expectations are established and a consistent track record of accurate, on-time deliverables is demonstrated
- Adaptability – comfort shifting priorities as new needs arise
- Ownership mindset – takes initiative to identify issues, independently seek out answers, and follow through to resolution, escalating thoughtfully when needed
- Collaborative and professional demeanor – communicates clearly and works well with staff and volunteers
- Mission alignment – an appreciation for, or interest in supporting, a values-driven community and the stewardship of a globally significant historic space

Qualifications

We’re looking for a strong foundation in bookkeeping and a mindset oriented toward accuracy, reliability, and continuous learning. The following experience would make for an ideal candidate—but we recognize that not every candidate will check every box, and we’re open to training the right person:

- 3+ years of bookkeeping or accounting experience (CPA a plus, but not required)
- Proficiency with QuickBooks Online (our general ledger system)
- Familiarity with general ledger accounting and reconciliations
- Experience with donor/CRM systems (Realm/ACS a plus)
- Payroll processing experience (Paychex or similar preferred)
- Proficiency with Excel and standard accounting tools
- Strong organizational and documentation skills

Compensation & Benefits

- Hourly rate: $45–$65/hour, depending on experience
- Workload of approximately 30 hours per month in total, with distribution of hours varying based on the monthly cycle. Work is more concentrated during the first three weeks of the month (close, payroll, and reconciliations), followed by a lighter period before the next cycle begins.

Benefits include:

- Paid Time Off (PTO): Prorated PTO to support rest and flexibility
- Holidays: 10 recognized holidays annually
- Winter Holiday Break: Office closure from Christmas Day through New Year’s Day
- Retirement Plan: Access to a 401(k) plan
- Leave Policies: Parental leave, bereavement leave, and other supportive leave options
- Hybrid Work Environment: Combination of remote work and on-site presence at our 1019 South Blvd office in Oak Park, IL

To apply for this position, please email your resume and cover letter to jobs@unitytemple.org.

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation

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