Senior Manufacturing Accountant

Location Chicago, Illinois 60632 Employment Type Full-Time | Permanent | On-Site Position Summary A well-established manufacturing organization is seeking a highly skilled Senior Accountant to support and execute full-cycle accounting operations within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This position plays a critical role in maintaining accurate financial reporting, managing month-end close activities, overseeing AP/AR processes, and ensuring the integrity of the general ledger. The ideal candidate will bring strong manufacturing accounting experience, advanced reconciliation capabilities, and hands-on expertise with MAS 90 / SAGE 100 ERP systems. This opportunity is best suited for a detail-oriented accounting professional who thrives in a collaborative environment and can independently manage multiple accounting priorities with accuracy and efficiency. This position reports directly to the CFO. Key Responsibilities Financial Reporting & Closing Activities Prepare and assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting packages Support complete month-end and year-end close processes Prepare journal entries, accruals, and adjusting entries Analyze balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow activity Ensure financial data accuracy and compliance with accounting standards General Ledger & Reconciliations Maintain integrity and accuracy of the general ledger Perform detailed general ledger reconciliations Complete bank reconciliations and account analysis Investigate and resolve discrepancies across financial accounts Monitor financial transactions for accuracy and completeness Accounts Payable Operations Process vendor invoices utilizing 3-way matching procedures Maintain vendor master records and payment documentation Resolve vendor inquiries and discrepancies in a timely manner Manage weekly check runs and payment processing Analyze AP aging and account balances Accounts Receivable Operations Post cash receipts and customer payments accurately Process ACH, wire, electronic, and paper check transactions Reconcile credit card and customer payment activity Investigate and resolve customer account discrepancies Support collections activities for past due accounts Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Analysis Assist with budgeting and forecasting processes Analyze forecast-to-actual variances Provide financial insights and operational support to leadership Audit & Compliance Support Support internal and external audit processes Prepare supporting schedules and documentation for auditors Ensure compliance with internal accounting procedures and controls Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with internal departments to support operational and financial objectives Participate in special projects and process improvement initiatives Maintain strict confidentiality of financial and company information Adapt effectively to changing priorities and business needs Required Qualifications Minimum 10 years of progressive accounting experience Strong manufacturing industry accounting background required Demonstrated experience managing full-cycle accounting operations Expertise in: Month-End Close General Ledger Management Bank Reconciliations Accounts Payable & Accounts Receivable Financial Reporting Hands-on experience with MAS 90 / SAGE 100 required Crystal Reports experience preferred Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial processes Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities Preferred Candidate Profile Stable career history with at least one long-term tenure of 3–5 years Experience within manufacturing or product-based environments strongly preferred Candidates from service-only or non-profit backgrounds may not align with client requirements Additional Information Fully on-site role based in Chicago, IL No remote or hybrid option available No relocation assistance provided No visa sponsorship available Immediate impact role with direct exposure to executive leadership #J-18808-Ljbffr