Accounting & AI Automation Specialist

Accounting & AI Automation SpecialistLocation: Ashburn, VA | On-SiteEmployment Type: Full-TimeHelp Shape the Next Generation of AccountingThe future of accounting isn't about doing more manual work. It's about building smarter systems that do the work better.Since 1996, C2 Essentials has provided Human Capital Management services, specializing in supporting federal contractors. As we continue to evolve, we're looking for an accounting professional who understands that artificial intelligence, automation, and integrated financial systems are transforming how businesses operate.We're not looking for someone who simply maintains spreadsheets, processes transactions, or follows accounting procedures because that's how they've always been done.We're looking for someone who understands accounting fundamentals, embraces emerging technology, challenges inefficient processes, and wants to help build a smarter, more automated accounting environment.This is an opportunity to combine hands-on accounting expertise with innovation and help shape the future of accounting at C2.What You'll DoAccounting Operations & Financial IntegrityPerform full-cycle accounting activities, including journal entries, general ledger maintenance, account reconciliations, and financial reporting.Support month-end and year-end close, financial statement preparation, and GAAP compliance.Investigate discrepancies, identify root causes, and implement solutions that prevent recurring issues.Maintain strong financial controls, accurate records, and reliable reporting.Oversee and support accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll-related accounting, budgeting, audits, and special projects, emphasizing technology-supported processes.AI, Automation & Financial Systems InnovationIdentify opportunities to use artificial intelligence, automation, and financial technology to improve accounting operations.Improve how accounting information flows between financial, payroll, banking, and other business systems.Help develop automated reconciliation processes, transaction matching, exception reporting, and financial workflows.Identify repetitive manual tasks and implement solutions that reduce unnecessary data entry and spreadsheet dependency.Evaluate emerging accounting technologies and recommend practical applications that improve accuracy, efficiency, and financial visibility.Collaborate with internal teams and technology resources to improve system integrations, controls, and reporting capabilities.Test and validate automated processes to ensure financial accuracy, security, and appropriate oversight.Continuous Improvement & OwnershipQuestion outdated processes and recommend smarter, more scalable approaches.Take ownership of accounting issues from investigation through resolution.Develop stronger internal controls, documentation, and automated checks.Help C2 transition from labor-intensive accounting processes to technology-driven financial operations.Manage competing priorities and deliver results in a collaborative, fast-moving environment.What You'll BringBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.3–6 years of hands-on accounting experience.Strong understanding of GAAP, general ledger accounting, reconciliations, journal entries, and month-end close.Experience with QuickBooks Online.Demonstrated experience using technology, AI, automation, or integrated software solutions to improve accounting workflows.Ability to analyze accounting discrepancies and understand how financial data moves through different systems.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.Understanding of financial controls and the importance of accuracy when implementing automated processes.Curiosity about emerging technologies and the initiative to turn ideas into practical improvements.Ability to work independently, collaborate with others, and take ownership of results.Preferred ExperienceAccounting workflow automation and financial system integrations.AI-powered accounting applications, automated reconciliations, or exception reporting.Experience with tools such as Power Automate, Zapier, or similar automation platforms.Cloud-based accounting platforms and financial reporting technology.Payroll or payroll-related accounting.Multi-entity accounting.Implementing process improvements and strengthening internal controls.Who Succeeds at C2You're an accounting professional who sees technology as an opportunity, not a threat.You understand the fundamentals of accounting, but you don't believe every accounting function needs to be performed manually.When you discover a discrepancy, you don't just correct the transaction. You investigate why it happened and look for ways to prevent it from happening again.When you encounter a repetitive process, you ask whether technology can handle it more efficiently.You're comfortable learning new systems, experimenting with emerging technology, and helping others embrace better ways of working.Most importantly, you want to be part of the next generation of accounting, where human judgment, financial expertise, AI, and automation work together.Why Join C2 Essentials?At C2, we're not simply filling an accounting position. We're investing in the future of our financial operations.You'll have the opportunity to contribute to daily accounting responsibilities while helping modernize the systems and processes that support our business.We value initiative, innovation, accountability, and people who are excited to challenge conventional thinking.BenefitsMedical, dental, and vision insuranceLife insuranceShort-term and long-term disability coverage401(k) with company matchingIf you're excited about where accounting is going—not just where it's been—we want to hear from you.C2 Essentials is an Equal Opportunity Employer.