Staff Accountant

Staff AccountantLocation: Whippany, NJ (Onsite) Term: Full TimeClient is a leading food distributor committed to quality and service, is seeking a detail-oriented Staff Accountant with a strong Accounts Payable (AP) background to join our accounting team. This role plays a key part in maintaining accurate financial records, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring timely and compliant payment processing. The ideal candidate will be organized, analytical, and capable of balancing transactional responsibilities with general accounting support in a fast-paced environment.Key ResponsibilitiesManage the full-cycle Accounts Payable process, including invoice entry, approval routing, and payment processing.Review and match purchase orders, packing slips, and invoices for accuracy and proper authorization.Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies in a timely and professional manner.Maintain vendor files and ensure compliance with W-9 and 1099 requirements.Process weekly check runs, ACH payments, and other disbursements.Assist in month-end close activities, including AP accruals, journal entries, and account reconciliations.Support preparation of monthly financial statements by ensuring all AP transactions are accurately recorded.Collaborate with the purchasing and operations teams to address invoice or pricing issues.Assist with sales tax filings and support internal and external audit requests.Identify and implement process improvements to streamline AP workflow and increase accuracy.QualificationsBachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).2–4 years of accounting experience, with a strong emphasis on Accounts Payable.Experience using QuickBooks, NCR/AS400 or similar ERP/accounting systems required.Solid understanding of GAAP and basic accounting principles.Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUP's, XLOOKUP'S, pivot tables, data reconciliation).Excellent attention to detail, time management, and organizational skills.Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain vendor confidentiality.Strong communication and interpersonal skills for vendor and cross-departmental coordination.Preferred SkillsExperience in the food distribution or manufacturing industry a plus.Proficiency with Excel reporting, data validation, and trend analysis.Problem-solving mindset with ability to remain calm under pressure.Strong analytical mindset with ability to identify process inefficiencies.Team player who can also work independently.Italian and Spanish language a plus.