Staff Accountant

Staff Accountant- Manufacturing

Principal Manufacturing a leader in fineblanking, conventional stamping and plastic injection molding is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Staff Accountant to support the day-to-day accounting operations of the company. This position is responsible for maintaining the general ledger, assisting with month-end and year-end close processes, supporting payroll activities, preparing financial reports, and assisting with annual audits and physical inventory activities. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of GAAP, excellent analytical skills, and experience working in a manufacturing environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

General Ledger Accounting

• Prepare and post journal entries.
• Reconcile general ledger accounts and investigate discrepancies.
• Maintain accuracy and integrity of accounting records.
• Assist with fixed asset accounting and depreciation schedules.
• Support accounts payable and accounts receivable activities as needed.

Month-End and Year-End Close

• Assist in monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close activities.
• Prepare account reconciliations and supporting schedules.
• Analyze variances and provide explanations for unusual account activity.
• Support preparation of financial statements and management reports.
• Ensure compliance with accounting policies and procedures.

Payroll Support

• Assist with processing weekly and bi-weekly payroll.
• Review payroll reports for accuracy and completeness.
• Reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts.
• Maintain payroll records and assist with payroll audits and reporting requirements.

Audit and Compliance

• Support external auditors during annual financial audits.
• Prepare schedules, reports, and documentation requested by auditors.
• Assist with internal control compliance and documentation.
• Ensure adherence to GAAP and company accounting policies.

Inventory and Manufacturing Support

• Assist with physical inventory counts and cycle count programs.
• Reconcile inventory records to the general ledger.
• Analyze inventory variances and investigate discrepancies.
• Support cost accounting and inventory valuation activities.
• Work closely with operations and production teams to ensure inventory accuracy.

Additional Responsibilities

• Maintain organized accounting records and supporting documentation.
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting activities.
• Support special projects and process improvement initiatives.
• Perform other accounting and administrative duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA designation or CPA candidate preferred.

Experience

• 3-5 years of accounting experience preferred.
• Manufacturing accounting experience strongly preferred.
• Experience with payroll processing and inventory accounting preferred.
• Experience supporting external audits preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, including PivotTables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and financial analysis functions.
• Proficient with Microsoft Outlook, Word, and accounting/ERP systems.
• Experience with manufacturing ERP systems preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to periodically participate in physical inventory counts, including walking through manufacturing and warehouse areas.

We offer paid holidays, PTO, 401K matching and medical benefits.