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Cost Accountant - Federal Grants

Atlanta, GA

Company Overview

K.L. Scott & Associates (KLSA) is a mission-driven management and technology consulting firm that partners with public-sector organizations to modernize operations, strengthen data and AI capabilities, and deliver measurable impact. KLSA combines strategic advisory services with hands-on delivery; bringing product leadership, secure data engineering, systems integration, and user-centered design to help clients translate complex requirements into scalable, high-quality solutions.

Cost Accountant – Federal Grants

KL Scott and Associates is seeking a Cost Accountant – Federal Grants. The Cost Accountant ensures the integrity of federal grant expenditures by evaluating cost allocation methodologies, validating financial data, and ensuring compliance with 2 CFR Part 200 and HHS requirements. This role supports sound financial stewardship across hospitals, universities, tribal governments, and non‑profits. 

Responsibilities:  

  • Review and analyze Cost Allocation Plans (CAPs) and Indirect Cost Rate Proposals (IDCRPs). 
  • Validate that costs are: 
    • Allowable and reasonable 
    • Properly documented 
    • Compliant with federal grant requirements 
  • Reconcile cost data with financial statements, budgets, and supporting records. 
  • Identify and exclude unallowable costs from calculations. 
  • Assist in evaluating cost distribution methods across multiple programs. 
  • Support preparation of financial reports, findings, and recommendations. 
  • Maintain accurate spreadsheets, tracking tools, and financial records. 
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders (including grant recipients). 
  • Familiarity with federal cost principles, internal controls, and risk assessment.
  • Experience with federal audits (Single Audit, OIG, GAO).
  • Provide basic guidance on cost allocation and grant compliance.

Qualifications & Required Skills:  

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA not required.
  • 3–5 years of experience in accounting, finance, or grants management. 
  • Hands-on experience with direct and indirect cost allocation. 
  • Experience working with or supporting grant requestsfrom: 
    • Hospitals 
    • Universities 
    • Tribal entities 
    • Non-profit organizations 
  • Understanding of federal grant regulations (2 CFR Part 200 preferred). 
  • Knowledge of GAAP and basic cost accounting principles. 
  • Strong Excel, this includes pivot tables, lookups, data validation, and error‑checking. and data analysis skills. 
  • Experience with financial systems (UFMS, PMS, GrantSolutions, or similar).
  • Good attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Understanding of grant requests from hospitals, universities, tribal entities, and non-profits.
  • Direct and indirect cost allocation.

Preferred Skills:

  • Exposure to Cost Allocation Plans or indirect rate calculations. 
  • Experience with grants management or financial systems. 
  • Ability to analyze financial data and explain findings clearly. 
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills. 
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments in a compliance‑driven environment
  • Exposure to federal financial management standards (OMB Circulars, HHS Grants Policy Statement)

Benefits: 

  • Competitive salary
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K
  • "Discretionary" PTO
  • Professional development opportunities
  • A dynamic and collaborative work environment

Working Conditions: 

  • This position may require travel as needed.
  • Some projects may require working extended hours to meet project deadlines.

If you are a results-driven professional and have the above qualifications, we encourage you to apply for this role. Join our team and contribute to our continued growth and success.  To apply, please send your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. 

K.L. Scott & Associates is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds and experiences to apply. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

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