Accounting Specialist

Accounting Specialist, Financial ServicesThe Accounting Specialist is a key member of the Financial Services team, responsible for a variety of accounting and administrative functions assigned by department management. This role ensures the accurate processing of financial transactions, premium management, accounts payable, and customer correspondence while maintaining high standards of confidentiality and professionalism. This position reports to the Manager, General Accounting.Primary responsibilities include:Cash and Premium Management: Balance and reconcile daily cash and premium transactions, including disbursements, claim activity, and underwriting suspense. Analyze and handle premium debit errors, returned transactions, and manual ACH requests. Process premium batches, exceptions, and lockbox correspondence.Accounts Payable (AP): Maintain the AP system by setting up vendors and processing invoices for approval and payment. Manage check printing, mailing, and handling stale-date letters.Bank File and Transaction Processing: Process various ACH transactions, including claims, annuities, and commissions (including ACAP) per assigned frequency and/or designated cadence. Handle stale-date check files.Document Management: Index and distribute incoming mail, faxes, and electronic documents using the document management system. Research incoming payments and scan to appropriate batch and lockbox at bank.Communication and Department Support: Maintain daily contact with internal and external customers via email, phone, and written communication. Collaborate with team members, contribute in departmental meetings, and escalate systems problems and control issues. Identify and suggest process improvements to management. Complete other related department duties as assigned.Anticipated Salary: $47,500 - $52,500Benefits Overview: We strive for our employees to feel appreciated and supported, both professionally and personally. Our comprehensive benefit and discount package that meets a variety of needs is one way we demonstrate this. Some of our most admired benefits include:Compressed 4 1/2-day work week (Half-Day Fridays)No monthly premium cost for employee medical, life and disability coveragePaid time-off accrual, including rollover optionsCompetitive 401(k) plan with immediate vesting on Company contributionsDiscounted on-site employee cafeteriaOn-site exercise facility and company-provided exercise timeTuition reimbursement and training incentivesAccess to voluntary dental and vision insurance coverageQualifications:Associate's Degree in Accounting or a related field (minimum requirement).Basic bookkeeping or accounting knowledge; insurance industry experience is a plus.Proficiency in MS Word, MS Excel, MS Outlook, and online systems.Strong verbal and written communication, time management, and organizational skills.Ability to learn systems such as cash/banking platforms, policy systems, accounting system, and imaging/document management tools.Professional demeanor with the ability to maintain confidentiality.Flexible, adaptable, and capable of working independently or collaboratively.Strong initiative, judgment, and problem-solving skills.Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.Required Competencies (Proficiency Level): Accountability (1), Continuous Learning (1), Customer Focus (1), Integrity (2), Organizational Awareness (1), Teamwork (1)This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and does not include every detail of the role. Responsibilities and expectations may be subject to change based on Company needs.Illinois Mutual is an equal opportunity employer.