Senior Accountant

Our client is a growing manufacturing organization in the Skokie area seeking a highly motivated Senior Accountant to join its accounting and finance team. This position will play a critical role in month-end close, financial reporting, inventory accounting, and operational support. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in public accounting, hold an active CPA or be actively pursuing certification, and have experience working within a manufacturing environment with significant inventory exposure. Position Summary The Senior Accountant will be responsible for maintaining the integrity of financial records, supporting inventory accounting processes, assisting with financial reporting, and partnering with operations to ensure accurate cost and inventory reporting. This position offers the opportunity to work cross-functionally with production, supply chain, and leadership teams while contributing to continuous process improvement initiatives. Key Responsibilities Prepare and review monthly journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial analyses. Assist with month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes. Manage inventory accounting activities including valuation, reconciliations, reserves, and variance analysis. Analyze manufacturing costs, inventory transactions, and production variances. Partner with operations and supply chain teams to ensure accurate inventory reporting and controls. Participate in physical inventory counts and cycle count programs. Prepare audit schedules and support external auditors during annual audits. Ensure compliance with GAAP, internal controls, and company accounting policies. Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities. Identify opportunities for process improvements and increased efficiencies within the accounting function. Support implementation and enhancement of ERP and inventory management systems. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required. CPA designation strongly preferred. 2+ years of accounting experience, including public accounting experience preferred. Experience working in a manufacturing environment with inventory accounting responsibilities required. Strong knowledge of GAAP and internal controls. Experience with cost accounting, inventory valuation, standard costing, and variance analysis preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and advanced formulas. Experience working with ERP systems. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively across departments. Preferred Experience Public accounting experience with audit or assurance engagements for manufacturing clients. Experience supporting inventory-heavy operations. Exposure to cost accounting and manufacturing reporting metrics. Experience improving accounting processes, controls, and reporting procedures. Annual bonus opportunity Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company match Paid time off and holidays Professional development and CPA support Paid sick leave where applicable by law. Equal Opportunity Employer Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr LHH