Accounting Operations Specialist

Accounting Operations Specialist (Hybrid – Chicago, IL) We are hiring an Accounting Operations Specialist to join a fast-growing Appraisal Management Company (AMC) based in Chicago. This hands‑on, high‑accountability role is for someone who thrives in daily accounting operations, takes ownership without needing reminders, and is excited about improving how things work — not just maintaining them. If you like structure, accuracy, problem‑solving, and making processes better, this role will feel like home. Who You Are You’re someone who enjoys daily accounting work and takes pride in doing things the right way. You understand compliance, deadlines, and documentation — and you stay ahead of tasks without being asked. You’re curious, eager to learn, and naturally look for ways to improve workflows. You’re comfortable learning new tools, exploring automation, and finding cleaner, faster ways to run accounting processes. Most importantly, you want to be someone leadership can fully trust. You’ll work directly with the President of the company — not as an assistant, but as a trusted operational partner who owns your responsibilities and brings forward ideas to improve the business. What Makes This Role Different This is not a passive bookkeeping job. You will own core financial operations end‑to‑end, including: Accounts Payable Accounts Receivable Client invoicing & billing accuracy Collections & AR follow‑up Vendor & appraiser payments Bank & credit card reconciliations Payroll processing Financial documentation & audit readiness Vendor onboarding follow‑ups (W‑9s, ACH, profiles) You will also play a key role in: Identifying workflow gaps Improving accounting processes Reducing manual steps Exploring automation and AI tools Strengthening documentation and financial controls We value people who naturally ask what can be faster, cleaner, or more automated. Financial & Licensing Compliance Responsibilities This role includes maintaining and tracking all compliance requirements related to financial operations, including: State licensing and renewal tracking for the company and appraisers Ensuring all required documentation (W‑9s, ACH forms, contracts, insurance, credentials) is collected and stored properly Monitoring expiration dates and submitting renewals on time Maintaining audit‑ready financial files and documentation trails Ensuring billing, invoicing, and payment processes follow internal controls Supporting 1099 preparation and vendor tax documentation Ensuring reconciliations, approvals, and financial records meet regulatory and audit standards The Impact You’ll Have Cash flow Vendor and appraiser satisfaction Client billing accuracy Compliance readiness Operational efficiency Leadership decision‑making Your work directly affects these areas. Tools & Software You’ll Use Experience with these tools is helpful, but we’re open to training the right candidate. QuickBooks Online Excel (intermediate to advanced) CRM or workflow tools Banking portals & reconciliation tools AI‑enabled tools (ChatGPT, OCR tools, automation scripts) What You’ll Bring Hands‑on accounting experience (AP, AR, invoicing, reconciliations) Understanding of financial compliance, documentation, and deadlines High attention to detail and accuracy Ability to manage multiple priorities independently Natural proactivity and follow‑through Curiosity about improving workflows and systems Comfort learning new tools and automation Pride in producing clean, complete, reliable work A desire to be a trusted partner to leadership Payroll experience is a plus — but we will train the right candidate Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) AP processing accuracy and timeliness AR aging and collection effectiveness On‑time payroll with zero errors Bank and credit card reconciliations completed by set deadlines Accuracy and completeness of monthly close support Reduction in manual steps through automation Timely completion of licensing and compliance renewals Responsiveness and follow‑through on internal requests What Success Looks Like in the First 90 Days Fully own AP, AR, and payroll cycles Reconciliations are completed accurately and on time Identified at least 2–3 process improvements Vendor and client billing workflows are running smoothly Built strong communication rhythms with leadership Demonstrated reliability, accuracy, and proactive follow‑through Work Structure Full‑time, Monday–Friday (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM) Onsite role to start for training and integration Transition to hybrid (3 days onsite per week) after ramp‑up and full role ownership Compensation & Benefits We offer a competitive package including: base salary $70,000 – $85,000 (based on experience), health & dental insurance (employer‑paid for employee coverage), 401(k) with 3% employer match, paid time off, sick leave, hybrid work structure after onboarding. Inclusivity Statement We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. If you meet most of the requirements and believe you’d thrive here, we encourage you to apply. Interested? If you’re someone who enjoys ownership, structure, accuracy, and continuous improvement, we’d love to hear from you. Apply directly or reach out to View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr