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General Ledger Accountant

    

JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION:                 General Ledger Accountant

REPORTS TO:     Controller

STATUS:             Non-exempt

 

JOB PURPOSE:

The LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired is looking for a service-oriented General Ledger Accountant to join the LightHouse team, in the heart of downtown San Francisco. With more than 100 employees and an annual budget of $13.5 M, the LightHouse has the resources and imagination to help change the lives of the blind and low-vision population of the greater bay area and beyond.  One of San Francisco’s oldest and best-known philanthropies, we’ve recently begun operations in our brand-new, state-of-the-art headquarters on Market Street. Here we coordinate students, volunteers, teachers, families, tech and a caring staff, to design and build new ways in which to help people with visual impairments.

The General Ledger Accountant will work in this San Francisco office as part of a four-person Finance Department, responsible for all aspects of accounting and financial reporting for the entire organization, including additional satellite offices in northern California.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education or equivalent: BS degree in Accounting preferred, although relevant work experience may also be considered.  A strong, working knowledge of GAAP accounting principles and practices is essential.

Experience: A minimum of three years’ experience working in an accounting department.  High-level MS Excel skills are mandatory.  A professional background including the use of Financial Edge software is highly preferred. A demonstrated history of working well with a variety of individuals while providing excellent customer service, both to internal and external customers. Proficiency with the balance of MS Office Suite, particularly Outlook and Word, are also important.

Other: Superior communication. Defined organizational skills, and the capacity to prioritize and meet multiple deadlines with minimal direction. Work experience within a nonprofit environment is helpful.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to: Carry or transport 20lbs, sit at a desk and perform computer-intensive work for long periods of time, operate standard office equipment and travel independently.

JOB ACCOUNTABILITIES:

  • Semi-monthly payroll processing support
  • Accounts Receivable (AR), Accounts Payable (AP) and Cash Receipts accounting and reporting.
  • Monthly review and recording of donation activity into the General Ledger, including unrestricted and restricted revenue reporting.
  • Monthly accounting for fixed assets.
  • Petty cash account management.
  • Various statutory governmental filings.
  • Various schedules supporting Agency’s annual audit.
  • Bank account reconciliations, and various other Balance Sheet account reconciliations.
  • Retail store and LightHouse Industries inventory / COGS accounting and reporting.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired is an equal opportunity employer to all.  We strive to maintain a scent-free environment and a drug-free workplace. We also operate under a mutual “employment at will” policy.

TO APPLY:

Please submit a cover letter and résumé as Word attachments (no .PDFs please), to hr@lighthouse-sf.org, including the job title in the subject line. We will not consider videos or hyperlinks to online profiles. Due to time constraints we will only respond to complete submissions in which there is serious interest; thanks for your understanding.

Employment Immersion Trainer

POSITION:           Employment Immersion Trainer

REPORTS TO:       Employment Immersion Manager

STATUS:              Exempt

JOB PURPOSE:

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired is looking for a professional, engaging and student-oriented Employment Immersion Trainer to join the LightHouse team as we embark on a fresh journey in our new building in the heart of downtown San Francisco. With 90 employees and an annual budget of $12.5 million, the LightHouse has the resources and imagination to help change the lives of the blind and low vision population of the greater Bay Area and beyond. One of San Francisco’s oldest and best-known philanthropies, we now have expanded into our brand-new, state-of-the-art  headquarters on Market Street, where we coordinate volunteers, big tech, teachers, families, students and a caring staff together to design and build new ways to help people with visual impairments.

The primary purpose of this position is to ensure that blind and visually-impaired students are provided practical, accessible and required training and support for their job search and application process.  The Employment Immersion Trainer will work closely with the EI Job Developer to ensure that timely encouragement and support is given to participants during formal class sessions and the subsequent job search phase.

The Employment Immersion Trainer will coordinate and teach standard aspects of career exploration, job search, interviewing, networking and job-carving.  This position will develop and maintain a system to keep every class participant accountable for specific actions throughout their enrollment in the program.

Importantly, however, our Employment Immersion program understands that successful blind jobseekers need to learn something far more profound than résumé writing and practice interviews.  We believe that many of the barriers to employment come from the blind applicant’s lack of self-confidence and often lack of self-respect.  The successful trainer will know how to teach and communicate a sense of blind history, empowerment, and will work to ensure that jobseekers meet, engage and connect with blind people already doing the kinds of work the jobseeker aspires to gain.  Consequently the trainer’s role will be often as a catalyst to connect mentors, to use video and literature and social media to empower jobseekers with a practical view of the employment possibilities ahead of them.

Additionally, many jobseekers may be blind but still uncomfortable with their disability.  The trainer’s job will be in part to connect these students to Lighthouse services and other activities which will strengthen their understanding of the normality of blindness and their right to participate fully in the world of work.

  

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education or equivalent: Bachelor degree or equivalent and relevant work experience

Experience:  Experience working with disabled community highly preferred. Experience with delivery of program content to diverse audiences

Other: Superior communication and interpersonal skills are essential.  Must be a skilled computer user, particularly with Microsoft Suite programs including Outlook, Word and Excel.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Able to sit at a desk and perform computer-intensive work for long periods of time; operate standard office equipment; move 20lbs independently.

 

ACCOUNTABILITIES: 

  • Collaborate with Senior Director Programs and Employment Immersion Manager to create Job Preparation components and curriculum
  • Establish and foster relationships with Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) staff to influence Client referrals to program
  • Meet with DOR Counselors regarding Individual Plans for Employment/Goals for students and determine appropriate training
  • Conduct Vocational Assessments in collaboration with appropriate LightHouse Departments
  • Conduct Workshops
    • Deliver curriculum based on Job Preparation track
    • Integrate curriculum into session agendas
    • Recruit and arrange guest speaker participation
    • Collaborate with Employment immersion Coordinator in the execution of job seeker resumes, on-line applications, etc. when indicated
    • Collaborate with Employment Immersion Coordinator to ensure authorizations, workshop attendance, consolidated placements, assignment tracking  and grant tracking are current
  • Triad with EI Job Developer and student prior to conclusion of Job Preparation to prepare for launch into Job Development
  • Plan and implement regular EI Alumni events in collaboration with EI Manager, EI Job Developer and EI Coordinator
  • Ensure integrity of EI Library. Select and categorize new materials
  • Compose timely Progress Reports
  • Support students with Personal-Vocational-Social-Adjustment (PVSA) and Job Retention activities when requested (May be shared responsibilities with EI Manager and Job Developer depending on calendar availability)

 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired is an equal opportunity employer to all.  We strive to maintain a scent-free environment and a drug-free workplace. We also operate under a mutual “employment at will” policy.

 

TO APPLY:

Please submit a cover letter and résumé as Word attachments (no .PDFs please), to hr@lighthouse-sf.org, including the job title in the subject line. We will not consider videos or hyperlinks to online profiles. Due to time constraints we will only respond to complete submissions in which there is serious interest; thanks for your understanding.

Designer, Accessible Media Specialist

POSITION: Designer, Accessible Media Specialist

REPORTS TO: Director of Media and Accessible Design Lab (MAD Lab)

STATUS: Non-exempt

JOB PURPOSE: The Media and Accessible Design (MAD) Lab is seeking a professional with strong Illustrator skills, someone keen to help us get into fabrication and help us develop the business, spreading the MAD Lab far and wide.

By providing individuals who are unable to read conventional print with access to the printed word and visually-conveyed information, the MAD Lab supports the rights of individuals to accessible information. While Braille and audio production remain cornerstones of the operation, our work extends to the creation of tactile graphics, maps, and educational materials. Innovative multi-modal approaches that encompass sense of touch, hearing and new technologies enable people who are blind or low vision and of varying abilities to enjoy full, independent lives. We design with these principles in mind. Talent and technology allow us to deliver quality product at competitive prices on deadline.

The essential components of the MAD Lab are:

  • Tactile maps and graphics – embossed, 3D printed, or otherwise fabricated for optimal legibility.
  • Accessibility Consultation – Typically businesses, government agencies, museums, exhibitors and designers with a focus on making their information and interpretive exhibits accessible.
  • ADA/CBC signage – compliance review and fabrication.
  • Alternative Formats – Braille translation; Audio recording; e-text production (Large Print, accessible .PDF, DAISY).

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education or equivalent: B.A. or M.A. in architecture, graphic design, design or related field.

Experience: Work history that parallels the needs of the department, as detailed below. Items marked with an asterisk are desirable/preferred, but are things we can, and will, teach on the job as necessary:

  • Advanced knowledge of design and layout software including Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat Pro, Photoshop, AutoCAD
  • Ability to address design problems from varying approaches, incorporating elements of 2D and 3D design
  • Experience/interest in 3D modeling and printing, and knowledge of various fabrication methods and materials*
  • Experience with Design Research
  • Aptitude for learning computer programs
  • Proficient in MS Office suite of software (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.)
  • Strong verbal, written, and visual communication skills
  • Experience recording/editing digital audio and/or video
  • Working knowledge of 2010 ADA Standards and 2013/2016 CBC Title 24*
  • Familiarity with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.0) and 508 standards*
  • Fluency in Spanish a plus
  • Experience using Braille translation software*
  • Braille literacy (English American Braille Grades 1 and 2, and UEB)*

Other: This position requires strong organizational skills; flexibility and ability to work independently and collaboratively; capacity to handle multiple projects simultaneously. Strong interpersonal skills to relate to staff, board members, volunteers, blind and visually-impaired clients, and persons in the community with varied backgrounds and viewpoints.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Able to sit at a desk and perform computer-intensive work for long periods of time; operate standard office equipment; move 20lbs independently.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

  • Learn applicable skills and tools, anticipating advances in the field, and applying new skills to projects.
  • Provide training to colleagues on necessary skills and tools.
  • Train and oversee volunteer’s efforts, as needed.
  • Ensure continuing standards and quality of production of designed materials.
  • Collect and document relevant information to standardize department practices and products.
  • Participate in research and development of new alternative media technologies and tools, building organizational capacity and meeting emergent needs.
    • Collaborate with O&M instructors and other intra-agency partners.
    • Collaborate with partners in related fields on research and design.
    • Develop design standards and best practices for new tools and products.
  • Produce information in Braille and other alternative formats.
    • Work independently to fulfill requests from individuals, non-profits, government organizations and businesses for alternative format projects.
    • Provide quotes / estimates for cost and turn-around time of deliverables.
    • Coordinate all aspects of production, from prototype to completion, including translation, proofing, embossing, collating, labeling, 3D printing, delivery of finished product, customer billing and check requests.
    • Anticipate and meet client needs.
    • Maintain Agency’s HIPAA compliance standards when handling, discussing or producing accessible Personal Health Information (PHI) for clients.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired is an equal opportunity employer to all. We strive to maintain a scent-free environment and a drug-free workplace. We also operate under a mutual “employment at will” policy.

TO APPLY:

Please submit a cover letter and résumé as Word attachments (no .PDFs please), to hr@lighthouse-sf.org, including the job title in the subject line. If applying to a design position, please provide a link to your design portfolio. We will not consider videos or hyperlinks to online profiles. Due to time constraints we will only respond to complete submissions in which there is serious interest; thanks for your understanding.

New Employment Immersion Sessions

New Employment Immersion Sessions

“Blind people forget that employers need them. We—the blind—have vast skillsets. We are scientists, artists, journalists, you name it. Often our blindness has nothing to do with our careers, except that it can make us stronger, and hiring us adds a diverse voice in the workplace. I remind my students that they truly are assets to any company. It’s not just a line we feed the students; it’s a reality Employment Immersion helps them discover.”—Employment Immersion Program Leader Kate Williams

Join the many LightHouse students who have found work through the LightHouse Employment Immersion Program. The program is for people who are blind or have low vision, from any background, seeking any job.

The next Employment Immersion sessions are scheduled as follows:

  • August 23 through Thursday, September 22
    Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  • October 11 through November 10
    Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  • January 10 through February 9
    Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

To learn more, contact Employment Immersion Coordinator Wanda Pearson at WPearson@lighthouse-sf.org or call 415-694-7359.

Grant Writer

POSITION: Grant Writer

REPORTS TO: Director of Development

STATUS: Non-Exempt

JOB PURPOSE:

Founded in San Francisco in 1902, the LightHouse’s purpose is to promote the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or visually impaired. The LightHouse is currently in a period of growth, increasing our capacity to serve more low vision and blind clients. We seek a dynamic professional to help us grow our individual and institutional support. This is an 80% part-time position. Approximately half time (.4 FTE) will be spent researching, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding major and planned gifts. Approximately half time (.4 FTE) will be dedicated to Grant Writing: researching opportunities for public and private grant funding; preparing grant proposals; maintaining relationships with grant funders and submitting reports to grantors. This position also serves as a primary agency editor and copywriter, and performs other development duties as requested.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:         Bachelor or graduate degree preferred, although relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of educational expectation.

Experience:         Three years of experience in non-profit fundraising, grant writing, and/or implementing a major gift program. Familiarity with researching a variety of online grant resources, including the Foundation Directory, www.grants.gov and other governmental grant sources. Familiarity with blindness and/or broader disabilities issues is a plus.

Other: Superior written communication. Excellent organizational skills with capability to prioritize and meet multiple deadlines with minimal oversight. Proficiency in MS Word MS Excel required. Experience with Raiser’s Edge donor management software preferred. Enthusiasm for LightHouse services and the transformative effect we can have on the lives of individuals who are blind or low vision. Dedication to learning the latest trends and practices in the blindness field, including review of current literature; attention to the wisdom of various blindness groups; and familiarity with the history of the blindness and disability movement.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to: Carry or transport 20lbs; sit at a desk and perform computer-intensive work for long periods of time; operate standard office equipment; travel independently.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

General:

  • Personal initiative, curiosity about people, a sense of humor and a strong team-oriented style.

Grant Writing:

  • Prepare and submit grant proposals within funder-specified and organizationally set timelines.
  • Coordinate with organization managers and staff to gather information for proposals and reports, including budget/expense information; assist in creating grant budgets and expense reports.
  • Track current grantors to assure compliance with reporting requirements, new deadlines, priority updates, etc.
  • Proactively research new public and private grant funding opportunities for programmatic and project priorities to assist in fully funding organization’s operating and capital budgets.
  • Maintain relationships with funders and prospective funders by providing stewardship of grant gifts; inviting to special events and programmatic functions; keeping them abreast of major organizational changes; and assisting in periodic check-ins over the grant year.
  • Coordinate meetings and site visits with individuals and grantors; assist in visits.
  • Stay current with grant funding trends in the blindness and disabilities community, as well as the broader philanthropic community, to inform proposal writing.
  • Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired is an equal opportunity employer to all. Qualified applicants are considered regardless of factors unrelated to the job. LightHouse has an “employment at will” policy.
TO APPLY:

Please submit your cover letter and résumé as Word attachments (no .PDFs please) to hr@lighthouse-sf.org, using the job title as your subject line. We will not consider videos or hyperlinks to online profiles in lieu of the requested format. Due to time constraints we apologize for being unable to acknowledge all interest that may be shown in each position.