Staff Accountant
Staff Accountant
Position Summary
The Staff Accountant supports the daily accounting operations and financial reporting of a precision manufacturing business. Reporting to the Controller, this position is responsible for accurate account reconciliations, accounts payable and receivable support, cash flow forecasting, and financial analysis. The role works closely with internal departments to maintain reliable financial records, support timely reporting, and provide information that helps management evaluate operating performance.
Key Responsibilities
General Ledger and Financial Reporting
- Prepare and maintain general ledger account reconciliations, investigate discrepancies, and resolve outstanding items in coordination with the Controller.
- Perform bank reconciliations and verify that cash activity is accurately and completely recorded.
- Assist with month-end and quarter-end closing activities, including journal entries, accruals, supporting schedules, and review of account balances.
- Support the preparation of monthly and quarterly financial reports, maintaining organized documentation and meeting established reporting deadlines.
Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable
- Enter and review vendor invoices using three-way matching of purchase orders, receiving documentation, and invoices; confirm appropriate coding and required approvals.
- Work with purchasing, receiving, and vendors to resolve invoice discrepancies and support timely payment processing.
- Record and apply customer cash receipts accurately; investigate unapplied payments and discrepancies.
- Support accounts receivable follow-up by reviewing outstanding balances, assisting with customer inquiries, and coordinating collection efforts with appropriate internal stakeholders.
Forecasting and Financial Analysis
- Maintain and update cash flow forecasts using expected collections, vendor payments, and other planned cash requirements; communicate significant changes to the Controller.
- Collaborate with department personnel to gather information and assist in developing budgets and forecasts.
- Analyze actual results against budget, forecast, and prior periods; identify significant variances and summarize the underlying drivers.
- Assist with cost analysis and profitability assessments to support management decisions and understanding of manufacturing performance.
Controls, Audit Support, and Process Improvement
- Maintain complete and accurate supporting records, follow established accounting procedures and internal controls, and protect confidential financial information.
- Prepare schedules and supporting documentation for external audit requests and assist with follow-up questions.
- Identify opportunities to improve accounting accuracy, efficiency, and reporting; assist with other accounting projects as assigned by the Controller.
Required Qualifications
- At least two years of accounting or related experience, with exposure to financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis.
- Associate's or bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
- Working knowledge of accounting principles and general ledger processes, with strong account reconciliation and hands-on bank reconciliation skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365, particularly Excel for reconciliations, data analysis, and supporting schedules.
- Strong attention to detail, analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments and handle confidential information with discretion.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a manufacturing accounting environment and familiarity with inventory, production costs, or cost accounting concepts.
- Experience using an ERP or accounting system and working with purchase orders, receiving records, and three-way invoice matching.
- Experience preparing or maintaining cash flow forecasts and reviewing financial variances a plus.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
This position works primarily in an office within a precision manufacturing facility and requires periodic presence on the production floor. Duties may require standing, walking, and occasionally lifting or moving up to 50 pounds. Appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, steel-toed boots, and hearing protection, must be worn in designated production areas. Reasonable accommodations are available to enable qualified individuals to perform the essential functions of the position.