General Accounting Specialist
Department: Finance & Accounting
Reports to: Accounting Manager or Controller
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly detail-oriented and proactive General Accounting Specialist to join our dynamic finance team. In this role, you will be the backbone of our daily accounting operations, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of our financial records. You will play a critical role in the monthly close process, account reconciliations, and the preparation of financial reports, all while adhering to established company policies and accounting standards. The ideal candidate is a skilled problem-solver with a strong foundation in accounting principles and a passion for process improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Daily Accounting Operations:
- Process accounts payable invoices and employee expense reports in a timely and accurate manner.
- Manage accounts receivable, including customer invoicing, payment application, and collections follow-up.
- Record and post daily financial transactions to the general ledger.
- Perform bank reconciliations and investigate any discrepancies.
- Maintain and reconcile key balance sheet accounts (e.g., prepaid expenses, accruals, fixed assets).
Month-End and Year-End Close:
- Actively participate in the month-end and year-end closing processes, ensuring all deadlines are met.
- Prepare and post necessary adjusting and accrual journal entries.
- Assist in the preparation of preliminary financial statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow).
- Support the analysis of financial fluctuations and provide detailed account analysis.
Financial Reporting & Compliance:
- Assist in the preparation of supporting schedules for internal and external audits.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, internal controls, and relevant accounting standards (GAAP).
- Contribute to the development and documentation of accounting processes to strengthen internal controls.
- Assist with tax preparation and compliance by providing organized and accurate records.
Systems & Process Improvement:
- Utilize accounting software and ERP systems proficiently to manage workflows.
- Leverage advanced Excel skills (PivotTables, VLOOKUPs, etc.) to analyze data and improve reporting efficiency.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements to streamline accounting procedures and enhance accuracy.
Qualifications & Skills
Required:
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- 2+ years of experience in a general accounting, staff accountant, or similar role.
- Solid understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
- High proficiency with Microsoft Excel (including PivotTables, VLOOKUP, and complex formulas).
- Hands-on experience with one or more major accounting software systems (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics 365, Oracle NetSuite, QuickBooks Online/Desktop, SAP).
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred:
- Experience participating in a full-cycle month-end close process.
- Professional certification or progress towards one (e.g., CPA, CMA).
