International Accountant (SG)

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Role Description

Application deadline: November 23, 2026

The international accountant serves as a finance business partner to assigned savings group programs and initiatives across HOPE International’s network. The role provides accounting, financial analysis, internal control and compliance support, and capacity building to help local teams produce accurate financial information, manage financial risk, and strengthen stewardship. The international accountant performs key elements of month-end review, consolidation, audit support, budgeting, and forecasting. The role also contributes to trainings, process improvements, systems initiatives, and special projects.

  • Location: Lancaster, PA, USA; Kigali, Rwanda; Bujumbura, Burundi; Lilongwe, Malawi; Lusaka, Zambia; Harare, Zimbabwe; Tanzania, Arusha, United States

  • Level: Professional

  • Salary range: US base*$49,000 - $59,000

  • Type: Full-time

  • Department: Finance & Accounting

  • Reports to: Manager of International Accounting for Savings Group

Responsibilities

  • Promote and contribute to the fulfillment of HOPE International’s mission and vision.
  • Finance business partnership & financial oversight
  • Serve as the primary finance business partner for assigned savings group (SG) programs, building trusted working relationships with local finance staff, country leadership, SG operations, internal audit, and other HOPE staff.
  • Review monthly financial submissions, including reconciliations, balance sheet accounts, expense activity, budget variances, payroll or other higher-risk areas, and supporting documentation; identify exceptions, investigate discrepancies, and coordinate timely resolution, escalating significant or unusual matters as appropriate.
  • Prepare financial analysis that helps SG program and HOPE staff stakeholders understand financial performance, liquidity, budget variances, emerging issues, and decisions requiring follow-up.
  • Support cash and liquidity planning, field transfers, and the accurate recording of transactions involving HOPE, local programs, church partners, and other stakeholders in accordance with applicable requirements.
  • Support local management in understanding program financial data, controls, responsibilities, and audit responses while reinforcing local ownership of program information and decisions.
  • Accounting, consolidation, & reporting
  • Perform assigned procedures supporting the completeness and accuracy of assigned SG programs’ financial information used in HOPE’s consolidated financial statements, including account mapping, foreign currency translation, eliminations, rollforwards, and HOPE-level adjustments.
  • Research accounting questions and apply applicable HOPE policies and accounting guidance; document conclusions and consult with senior team members on complex, unusual, or judgmental matters.
  • Coordinate with local teams and HOPE accounting colleagues to investigate and resolve transaction discrepancies, intercompany balances, reporting inconsistencies, and other financial close or consolidation issues.
  • Prepare and support financial analyses, workpapers, schedules, and explanations needed for management reporting and HOPE’s external audit.
  • Internal controls, compliance, & audit
  • Review financial processes and controls at assigned SG programs, identify potential gaps or areas of concern, and work with local teams and senior finance colleagues to support appropriate corrective actions.
  • Apply and promote compliance with HOPE accounting policies, church partner financial guidelines, local finance manuals, anti-corruption requirements, and applicable statutory or regulatory requirements; seek guidance when requirements are unclear or circumstances are unusual.
  • Partner with local finance staff, SG management, risk and compliance, and internal audit to support risk assessments, audits, compliance reviews, management responses, and follow-up on corrective actions.
  • Provide accounting and financial support for local external audits, including review of audit firm selection and engagement terms, financial statements, proposed adjustments, and management responses, consulting with senior team members on significant matters.
  • Maintain clear documentation for significant transactions, policy exceptions, banking and liquidity matters, and other areas requiring evidence of ownership, authorization, or appropriate accounting treatment.
  • Assist in evaluating the impact of organizational, operational, and personnel changes on financial risk and control effectiveness
  • Budgeting, forecasting, & decision support
  • Support assigned programs through annual budgeting and periodic reforecasting, including training, review of assumptions, cash planning, and ensuring strategic initiatives align with the budget.
  • Review actual-to-budget results and forecasts, investigate material or unexpected activity, and help stakeholders understand variances and the follow-up required.
  • Support analysis of the financial implications of new programs, partnerships, grants, staffing changes, systems, and operational initiatives.
  • Training, process improvement, & team leadership
  • Deliver or support practical accounting, policy, systems, budgeting, and internal control training for local finance staff, church partner teams, SG leaders, and CSU HOPE colleagues.
  • Share technical knowledge, tools, and effective practices with colleagues and local SG staff and provide peer support or coverage as needed.
  • Participate in cross-network initiatives that strengthen consistency, documentation, efficiency, or compliance, including implementation of finance systems and audit or partner-monitoring tools.
  • Identify opportunities to improve templates, checklists, workflows, and technology and contribute to implementation of approved improvements.
  • Participate in cross-functional projects and undertake other responsibilities assigned by the manager.

Qualifications

  • Personal confession of Christian faith and commitment to the mission and vision of HOPE International.
  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, or equivalent professional preparation.
  • At least three years of progressively responsible accounting or finance experience, including experience exercising independent judgment over reconciliations, close, reporting, audit, or and internal controls.
  • Knowledge of U.S. GAAP and familiarity with IFRS, with the ability to research and apply guidance to practical circumstances.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, with consistent attention to detail and follow-through.
  • Demonstrated ability to build trust, influence without direct authority, and communicate effectively across cultures, functions, and levels of an organization.
  • Willingness to share knowledge, tools, and effective practices with colleagues and local finance teams.
  • Proficiency in Excel and effective use of accounting and collaboration systems.
  • Ability to work independently across time zones, manage competing priorities, and travel internationally.
  • Preferred: • CPA, ACCA, or comparable professional accounting credential; an advanced degree in accounting, finance, or business may also be valuable. • Experience in nonprofit, international, public accounting, grants, or multi-entity consolidation environments. • Experience with NetSuite, Adaptive Planning, Optro, or similar financial and compliance systems. • Professional proficiency in French or another language used across the HOPE network.

Special application instructions

* Note on salary: HOPE International determines starting salary ranges based on internal equity and the external market. Because we take a market-based approach to pay, this salary range is specific to US-based employment. Hires made in other countries will have a salary range based on local market factors and this range will be disclosed during the interview process.

Additional information

Download Job Description

HOPE's hiring process

This guide will help you to understand where you are in the process and what to expect next.

  1. PRAYER

    We start each posting with prayer that God would prepare and lead the right person to this position and that we would make a wise choice.

  2. COMMITTEE

    A small group of relevant people connected to the open position is formed to discuss the needs and requirements.

  3. POST & REVIEW

    The job description is posted, and we review all applicant resumes.

  4. SCREEN & INVITE

    We review and screen candidates for skill, culture, and mission fit and then invite them to an initial interview.

  5. SECOND INTERVIEW

    We will then pass along qualified candidates to the hiring manager for a second-round phone interview.

  6. FACE to FACE

    We will select several top candidates to bring in for face-to-face interviews.

    7. At that point we will make a decision. Our process typically takes about 120 days but of course varies depending on the role and candidate pool.

HOPE's hiring process

This guide will help you to understand where you are in the process and what to expect next.

  1. PRAYER

    We start each posting with prayer that God would prepare and lead the right person to this position and that we would make a wise choice.

  2. POST & REVIEW

    The job description is posted, and we review all applicant resumes.

  3. SCREEN & INVITE

    We review and screen candidates for skill, culture, and mission fit and then invite them to an initial interview.

  4. SECOND INTERVIEW

    We will then pass along qualified candidates to the hiring manager for a second-round phone interview.

  5. DECISION

    At that point we will make a decision.

HOPE's hiring process

This guide will help you to understand where you are in the process and what to expect next.

  1. PRAYER

    We start each posting with prayer that God would prepare and lead the right person to this position and that we would make a wise choice.

  2. COMMITTEE

    A small group of relevant people connected to the open position is formed to discuss the needs and requirements.

  3. POST & REVIEW

    The job description is posted, and we review all applicant resumes.

  4. SCREEN & INVITE

    We review and screen candidates for skill, culture, and mission fit and then invite them to an initial interview.

  5. SECOND INTERVIEW

    We will then pass along qualified candidates to the hiring manager for a second-round phone interview.

  6. DECISION

    At that point we will make a decision. Our process typically takes about 120 days but of course varies depending on the role and candidate pool.

Get to know HOPE before you apply.

Details & eligibility

Key dates

Key dates: The openings for HOPE's summer internship program are posted in the fall and applications are typically accepted through mid-January. The summer term for internships is late May through mid-August. Many fellowship openings also begin around late May and will continue beyond mid-August, but fellowships could also be posted and begin at any time of year.

Eligibility

Undergraduate students who have completed at least their sophomore year by the start of the internship, recent graduates, and graduate students are eligible to apply for internships. Recent graduates, graduate students, and business professionals are eligible to apply for fellowships.

Spring and fall fellowship applications are considered on a rolling basis.

Interviews

Individuals being considered for a position will have a preliminary pre-recorded interview and then secondary interviews over the phone or Microsoft Teams.

Wages & Housing

HOPE International offers a stipend to offset the expense of rent during the internship/fellowship. Interns and fellows receive a stipend of $500/month. HOPE may provide interns and fellows with fundraising resources if necessary.

Early decision

Applicants requiring an earlier decision date should state such in their application. Although HOPE will try to grant these requests, the candidate will be competing against an unknown candidate pool, which lessens the likelihood of a favorable decision.

Work schedule

Full-time interns and fellows work 32-hour weeks (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with an hour for lunch) and are given Friday off. Because HOPE interns and fellows work a shortened week, there may be opportunities for them to seek weekend employment to help cover expenses. Work schedules vary for interns and fellows based overseas. Internships with HOPE should span a minimum of 10 weeks and can be extended up to a total of nine months per the acceptance of the supervisor. Fellowships are typically 6- to 12-month positions.

Applicant FAQs

Why is HOPE International in Lancaster, PA?

HOPE was founded in Lancaster in 1997 by Jeff Rutt, a local home builder. A vibrant city of approximately 60,000 people, Lancaster has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 reasons we love Lancaster:

  1. Named by Forbes as one of the 10 coolest cities to visit in the U.S.
  2. Close to Baltimore, Philadelphia, D.C., and New York—but without the high cost of living
  3. Great shopping and a vibrant local food scene
  4. Home of the country’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market
  5. Regular events like First Friday, free concerts in Long’s Park, and more
  6. Scenic location, perfect for exploring the great outdoors
  7. Dynamic art, theater, and music scenes
  8. Downtown Lancaster is unique and authentic
  9. Summer evenings cheering on our very own minor league baseball team
  10. Delicious ice cream and whoopie pies: Need we say more?

What is HOPE culture like?

We like to say that we take our work seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Our culture is something we’re really excited about. So excited that we have a whole section on this page dedicated to talking about it. Learn more about our culture through our PASSION statement, manifesto, and statement of faith.

What does a typical day look like?

There is no typical day at HOPE! Daily responsibilities will depend on your role, but there are some things that you can count on if you are a domestic staff member: staff prayer times on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; staff devotions on Tuesdays; and staff meetings every other Thursday. These are times that domestic staff get together and intentionally study the Word, pray, celebrate, and hold one another accountable. We look forward to these times of building relationships with each other and with the Lord.

What do staff members say is their favorite thing about working at HOPE?

If you ask different people this question, you’ll get different responses. Many people cite their passion for HOPE’s mission to alleviate both physical and spiritual poverty. Some love HOPE because they get to make an impact for the Lord while using their gifts and abilities. Others love the culture. Often, people say their favorite thing about HOPE is that they get to pray and worship with colleagues. Many love to see the pride on the faces of those we serve when they use their gifts and passions to provide for their families and communities. It varies, but everyone has a long list of things that bring them back to work each day!

What is the interview process like?

HOPE’s interview process is extremely collaborative. We begin by screening resumes. The next step is an initial phone interview with human resources. Candidates who move beyond the initial phone screen will interview over the phone again, this time with the hiring manager. There is sometimes a third phone screen with an executive team member, and finalists are brought to Lancaster to interview in person with the search committee. Our goal is to complete each hiring process within 120 days.

This process may vary for international roles.

How do I know the status of my application?

After you enter your resume and cover letter into our applicant tracking system, you will receive an email indicating that we have received your materials. You will be emailed again with any relevant information regarding your application. Due to the volume of applications received, we are unable to answer individual phone calls or email requests for status updates.

How should I apply?

First, check out HOPE’s open positions. If there are any roles that could be a fit, please click on the open position and click on the “apply now” button. You will be directed to enter your resume and cover letter into our applicant tracking system. Due to the volume of applications received, we are unable to answer individual phone calls or email requests for status updates.

We cannot accept hard-copy materials. Thank you!

Applicant FAQs

What is the difference between an internship and a fellowship?

Internships are semester-based positions for undergraduate and graduate students of all disciplines. Fellowships are 6-12 month positions for recent college graduates, experienced graduate students, or business professionals.

What if I’m interested in multiple positions?

You are welcome to submit your application for any roles you are interested in. There will also be the opportunity to share in your interviews which roles you would be willing to consider and which would be your top preference. However, the job postings will have closed before interviews begin, so we would encourage you to save the role descriptions for the opportunities you would be interested in learning more about.

What is the support-raising process like for interns and fellows who choose to fundraise?

In the past, some have chosen to raise support for their internships or fellowships. If you choose to do this, HOPE may share resources such as sample fundraising letters to help you in this process.

Are there any opportunities for interns and fellows to become staff members?

Yes, quite a few HOPE staff members first came to HOPE through an internship or fellowship! However, a job is not guaranteed as a result of your internship or fellowship.

What does the average day look like for a HOPE intern or fellow?

There is no typical day! Some interns will work primarily from an office setting while others may have opportunities to travel into the field. Interns and fellows who work from our office in Lancaster, PA may have opportunities to connect with teammates in person over lunch, a game of ping-pong, or joining team meetings like staff prayer. Interns and fellows who work remotely have opportunities to connect with teammates and other interns virtually though scheduled meetings like book studies, connect times, leadership sessions, and more!

What is HOPE looking for in candidates?

HOPE looks first for candidates who exhibit an active and vibrant relationship with Christ and demonstrate commitment to serving families who have been marginalized. An ideal candidate has experience leading others, whether on campus, in their church, or in the community as well as a desire to serve. An ideal candidate also has excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as international experience, specifically in the developing world. Finally, an ideal candidate is a lifelong learner—someone who gets excited by continually learning new things and is actively pursuing knowledge.

Why do you require that students complete their sophomore year in order to be eligible?

HOPE International’s internship and fellowship program is a competitive one, and we anticipate large applicant pools each year. Interns and fellows who have completed more semesters of college tend to contribute more professionalism, maturity, independence, and confidence in the workplace. Also, they have received more relevant coursework in their major, better preparing them for their specific work here.

What is housing like if I want to relocate to Lancaster, PA?

We work to help provide interns and fellows with low-cost housing options. For example, occasionally staff members or supporters of HOPE will open their homes to host interns and fellows. Sometimes interns and fellows may stay over the summer on a local college campus, or some interns may choose to pay a higher rent to live in a preferred area or with their friends. Accommodations for interns and fellows will vary according to several factors such as time of year, funding, availability of host homes, and transportation needs, but it is ultimately up to the intern or fellow to determine the option that works best for them.

Do you consider non-business majors?

Absolutely! Each of our internship and fellowship openings are unique and favor different areas of expertise. At HOPE, we believe it’s important to evaluate a candidate as a whole. We want an individual with the heart of a missionary, the mind of a businessperson, and the soul of a development worker. We have had interns and fellows with majors in English, social work, economics, international studies, foreign languages, and many more

Are HOPE internships or fellowships paid?

We offer a living stipend of $500 per month. Some interns and fellows raise funds to help cover additional living costs.

Our mission

At HOPE International, we invest in the dreams of families in the world's underserved communities as we proclaim and live the Gospel.

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Resources: If you're part of a church, nonprofit, or school and would like to learn more about HOPE's methodology, visit our resource library. If you're part of a church network or organization and would like to learn more about implementing HOPE's savings group (SG) methodology, visit our SG Multiply page. To learn more about HOPE's Microfinance Accelerator Program (MAP), visit here.

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