Accounting Specialist (Olive Branch)

Position Summary

The Accounting Specialist supports daily accounting activities and ensures accurate, reliable financial information. This position supports general accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, manufacturing accounting, inventory, financial reporting, reconciliations, audits, and accounting systems.

The Accounting Specialist will work closely with Accounting, Production, Purchasing, Human Resources, Engineering, Logistics, and Plant Leadership to support accurate financial reporting, cost control, operational performance, and continuous improvement.

The manufacturing facility includes metal stamping, plastics molding, welding, paint, and assembly. This position provides accounting support for the plant's manufacturing operations and offers opportunities to gain experience in manufacturing and cost accounting.

Scope of Responsibilities & Accountability

The Accounting Specialist is responsible for performing assigned accounting functions accurately and timely while supporting the Accounting department's financial and operational objectives. This position will assist with accounting processes, financial reporting, reconciliations, manufacturing cost accounting, audits, and other accounting activities as needed.

Essential Responsibilities

General Accounting & Financial Reporting

• Perform general ledger accounting activities and account reconciliations.
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing activities.
• Prepare and maintain accurate accounting records and supporting documentation.
• Review financial information for accuracy and identify discrepancies.
• Assist with preparation of financial reports and accounting schedules.
• Research and resolve accounting discrepancies as needed.
• Maintain confidentiality of financial and company information.

Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable & Cash Management

• Process and maintain accounts payable and accounts receivable transactions.
• Review invoices and supporting documentation for accuracy and proper approval.
• Assist with payment processing and account reconciliation activities.
• Assist with customer collections and account follow-up as needed.
• Identify and resolve discrepancies related to AP, AR, and cash transactions.
• Assist with banking and cash management activities.

Manufacturing Accounting & Costing

• Support manufacturing accounting and cost accounting activities.
• Assist with analysis of labor, material, and overhead costs.
• Review production and inventory transactions for accuracy.
• Assist with inventory accounting, physical inventory, and cycle count activities.
• Support analysis of manufacturing variances, including scrap, rework, and downtime.
• Assist with production reporting and financial performance analysis.
• Work with Production and other departments to research and resolve cost and inventory discrepancies.

Audit & Compliance

• Assist with internal and external audit activities.
• Prepare documentation and supporting information requested for audits.
• Maintain accurate records to support financial transactions and audit requirements.
• Follow established internal controls and accounting procedures.
• Assist with identifying and correcting accounting discrepancies or control issues.

ERP Systems & Data Management

• Process accounting and financial transactions within the company's ERP system.
• Maintain accurate accounting and master data.
• Assist with accounting, inventory, and reporting functions within Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (D365).
• Assist with system testing, enhancements, and implementation activities as needed.
• Develop and maintain reports and spreadsheets to support accounting and operational needs.
• Troubleshoot accounting and system-related issues and coordinate with appropriate departments when necessary.

Continuous Improvement & Department Support

• Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes, efficiency, and accuracy.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities within Accounting and across the plant.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional departments to support business objectives.
• Provide accounting information and support to management as needed.
• Assist with special projects and other accounting initiatives.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Entry Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting required.
• Strong understanding of basic accounting principles.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling financial information.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Preferred

• 1–2 years of accounting experience.
• Experience in an automotive or manufacturing environment.
• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (D365) or another ERP system.
• Experience with general ledger accounting and account reconciliations.
• Experience with accounts payable or accounts receivable.
• Experience with inventory or cost accounting.
• Experience with financial reporting and month-end closing activities.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel, including Pivot Tables and XLOOKUP/INDEX-MATCH.

Major Qualification Requirements

• Strong foundation in accounting principles and practices.
• Demonstrated ability to accurately analyze and process financial information.
• High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail.
• Ability to identify discrepancies and assist with problem resolution.
• Ability to communicate effectively wit