Staff Accountant

Description

 The Staff Accountant plays a key role in supporting the organization’s accounting and financial operations, including month-end close, account reconciliations, and financial reporting. This role requires strong attention to detail, ownership of assigned responsibilities, and a commitment to accuracy and timeliness.

This position is ideal for a team-oriented and detail-driven professional who is curious, takes ownership of their work, and actively looks for ways to improve processes. The ideal candidate is eager to learn, asks thoughtful questions, and contributes ideas to enhance efficiency and accuracy across the accounting function. This job is based in our Chicago Loop HQ, where we maintain a hybrid schedule.  

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Month-End Close

• Own and execute assigned components of the month-end and year-end close process
• Prepare and post journal entries, accruals, and adjustments
• Perform monthly and annual account reconciliations
• Take ownership of assigned areas of financial reporting and supporting schedules
• Analyze financial variances and proactively investigate differences
• Prepare ad hoc reporting and analysis for management and leadership

General Accounting

• Maintain and ensure accuracy of the general ledger
• Monitor and reconcile bank accounts
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and internal accounting policies

Accounts Payable & Accounts Receivable Support

• Review vendor invoices for accuracy, coding, and approvals
• Support vendor payment processing and maintain vendor records
• Assist with A/R cycle including invoicing and cash application

Audit & Compliance

• Support internal and external audit requests
• Maintain organized documentation and audit support schedules
• Ensure adherence to internal controls and regulatory requirements

Systems & Process Improvement

• Identify and recommend process improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and scalability
• Proactively question existing workflows and suggest enhancements or automation opportunities
• Participate in system implementations, upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives

What Success Looks Like in This Role

• Completes close responsibilities accurately and on time with minimal oversight
• Demonstrates ownership and accountability for assigned work
• Proactively identifies issues and suggests solutions
• Builds strong relationships across teams
• Contributes ideas that improve processes and efficiency

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• Bachelors’ degree in accounting or related field preferred
• 3+ years of accounting experience required

Required Skills and Capabilities:

• Strong understanding of GAAP accounting principles
• Advanced attention to detail and analytical skills
• Intermediate Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis)
• Comfortable working with large datasets
• Experience with accounting systems (Sage Intacct preferred)
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrates ownership and accountability for work
• Naturally curious with a willingness to ask questions and investigate
• Proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement
• Collaborative team player who works effectively across departments
• This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only activities to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related responsibilities requested by their manager.

Working Conditions

This hybrid position is based in the Chicago headquarters and combines in-office and remote work as determined by management. The role involves regular use of computers and phones as well as participation in in-person and video meetings. Flexibility and professionalism are expected to meet business needs. Occasional travel may be required.

Company Benefits

The Company provides a comprehensive benefits program for its employees, including but not limited to, paid time off, short- and long-term disability programs, life insurance, comprehensive health insurance (vision, dental, medical), and a 401(k) plan.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disabled status.

Salary Range: $70,000 - $80,000