Senior Accountant

WHO WE ARE

Opening our doors in 1947, we are a third-generation, family-owned and operated direct importer, converter, and full-service distributor. We value the connections made over the bond people share through food, whether they are internal or external. For more information about who we are, please visit Peterson Company (petersoncheese.com).

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Senior Accountant is responsible for overseeing core accounting functions, maintaining accurate financial records, and delivering the financial reporting, analysis, and insights needed to support informed business decision-making. Reporting to the Corporate Controller, this role plays a key part in ensuring the integrity of financial data, compliance with GAAP, the effectiveness of internal controls, and the successful execution of accounting operations. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented accounting professional with strong technical expertise, analytical capabilities, and the ability to collaborate effectively across the organization. This role is anticipated to be on site four days a week.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Financial Reporting & General Ledger- Partner with the Corporate Controller in preparing monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements; manage month-end and year-end close processes; reconcile general ledger accounts on a regular basis, investigating and resolving discrepancies in a timely manner and escalating material issues as appropriate; prepare and review balance sheet reconciliations, intercompany transactions, and supporting schedules required for financial reporting and audit purposes.
• Budgeting and Financial Analysis – Support annual budgeting and rolling forecasting processes by preparing financial inputs, departmental cost analyses, and variance commentary; Prepare financial and operational reports for management, including profitability, trend, and performance analyses that support strategic decision-making
• Compliance and Internal Control – Maintain and continuously improve accounting procedures, internal controls, and financial policies to ensure compliance with GAAP and applicable regulatory requirements; Coordinate and support external audits by preparing requested documentation, reconciliations, and supporting schedules; Assist in implementing process improvements that enhance financial accuracy, compliance, efficiency, and control effectiveness.
• Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration - Mentor and support accounting team members by providing technical guidance, reviewing work for accuracy, and encouraging professional development; Partner with business leaders and cross-functional teams to ensure financial information is accurately captured and reported; Support management reporting, financial modeling, and analysis that connects financial results to organizational performance.

What You’ll Bring

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 5-8 years of progressive accounting experience with increasing levels of responsibility.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, general ledger accounting, account reconciliations, and month-end close processes.
• Experience supporting budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and management reporting.
• Experience with ERP systems and financial reporting tools; experience with enterprise accounting platforms preferred.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including financial modeling, data analysis, reconciliations, and reporting.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present financial information clearly to a variety of audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across departments and build effective business partnerships.
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Preferred

• CPA or CMA designation, or active pursuit of professional certification.
• Experience participating in external audits and regulatory compliance activities.
• Experience mentoring, training, or reviewing the work of other accounting professionals.
• Experience with import accounting, duty cost capture, and the financial treatment of customs-related expenses in a food distribution or importing business.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, continuous improvement environments.

What We Bring

Compensation — In accordance with Washington state law, in good-faith, the total annual compensation is estimated between $85,000 and $115,000 , with final base salary determined by skills and experience.

Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage — Comprehensive insurance plans are available to eligible employees and their covered dependents.

Life Insurance — Peterson Company provides $25,000 in employer‑paid basic life insurance policy , with additional voluntary coverage options available .

401(k) Retirement Plan — Employees may begin contributing after 30 days of employment. Peterson Company matches approximately $0.30 per dollar up to 6% of eligible income. A dedicated financial partner is available to support investment education and planning.

Equal Opportunity Statement: The Peterson Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other factor protected by law.