Entry Level Bookkeeper

Entry Level Bookkeeper

About SBR Events Group: We are a collection of two of Chicago's leading special event brands, all working collectively together to provide our clients with proven excellence in culinary, hospitality design, and production for their unique events. SBR Events Group brings tremendous opportunities for agile and passionate individuals looking to work hard in a dynamic, challenging, fun, and inspiring environment. We place integrity, teamwork, and kindness at the heart of what we do. We have created a culture where we are passionate about collaboration and hospitality and can care for each other and our customers by doing the right thing for the right reason.

Position Summary: The Bookkeeper I is an entry-level accounting position responsible for creating and recording the financial transactions that support SBR Events Group's catering and restaurant divisions. This includes posting information to accounting journals and accounting software from source documents such as customer invoices, cash receipts, and supplier invoices, and reconciling accounts to ensure their accuracy. The role carries primary day-to-day responsibility for accounts receivable — preparing, distributing, and adjusting invoices and posting payments in Caterease and QuickBooks — and provides structured support to the AP Specialist on accounts payable activities. The Bookkeeper I also handles assigned administrative duties for the accounting office. Routine transactions are performed independently, with reconciliations and month-end work subject to review by the Accounting Director. This role is Tier 1 of SBR's bookkeeper career path.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Accounts Receivable (Primary Ownership)
• Prepare and distribute client invoices accurately and on schedule from approved event orders and contracts.
• Post receivables for both the catering, restaurant, and sauce divisions.
• Deposit and post cash receipts and electronic payments in Caterease and QuickBooks.
• Make account adjustments, including credit memos, returned items, and tip adjustments.
• Record cash receipts and make bank deposits in accordance with company cash-handling procedures.
• Monitor aging reports and flag past-due balances for follow-up.
• Support the Accounting Director in the monthly reconciliation of revenue accounts.
• Assist with local, state, and federal government reporting requirements as directed.
• Accounts Payable (Support to AP Specialist)
• Receive and verify invoices and requisitions for goods and services.
• Match invoices to receipt of goods and purchase orders (three-way match).
• Obtain necessary approvals for payment.
• Take all reasonable early-payment discounts on supplier invoices.
• Enter approved invoices for payment and support timely weekly payment of supplier invoices.
• Support the AP Specialist with the weekly check run and prepare vendor checks for mailing.
• Support the AP Specialist with review of W-9s and setup of vendor accounts (system and hard copy).
• Assist the AP Specialist in the monthly reconciliation of payable accounts.
• Administrative & General Support
• Provide clerical and administrative support to management as requested.
• Distribute parcels and other mail.
• Maintain organized digital and physical filing of invoices, receipts, and payment records in accordance with company retention practices.
• Follow all company accounting policies, internal controls, and cash-handling procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality of financial, payroll, vendor, and client information at all times.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Accounting Director.

Performance Standards

Performs routine transactions independently, with reconciliations and month-end work reviewed by the Accounting Director. Manages multiple concurrent priorities and deadlines (daily posting, weekly check run, month-end support). Works effectively with internal staff, managers, vendors, and clients; communicates clearly and professionally. Demonstrates proficiency with technology, including Caterease, QuickBooks, and Microsoft Office. Follows established procedures, guidelines, and internal controls consistently.

Position Requirements - Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required; coursework in accounting, bookkeeping, or business preferred. 0–2 years of bookkeeping, accounting clerk, or related administrative experience (internships and coursework considered). Basic understanding of debits, credits, and double-entry bookkeeping principles. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel (data entry, sorting, basic formulas) and standard office software. Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills. Ability to communicate professionally with vendors, clients, and coworkers in person, by phone, and in writing.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with QuickBooks and/or Caterease (or comparable accounting and catering management software). Prior experience in hospitality, catering, restaurant, or another high-volume transactional environment. Familiarity with accounts payable and accounts receivable workflows.

Core Competencies

Accuracy & Attention to Detail — enters, verifies, and reconciles financial data with a high standard of precision. Reliability & Accountability — meets deadlines for daily posting, weekly check runs, and month-end support tasks. Integrity & Confidentiality — handles sensitive financial information with discretion and sound judgment. Multi-Tasking & Organization — balances AR ownership, AP support, and administrative duties concurrently. Teamwork & Communication — works cooperatively with the AP Specialist, accounting staff, operations, and clients. Learning Orientation — actively builds skills toward Tier 2 proficiency through training and feedback.

Compensation & Benefits

Anticipated pay range: $20.00-$24.00 per hour Salary offers may be commensurate with experience, skills, education, and training. The compensation is subject to change at the company's sole discretion based on institutional needs. Health, Dental & Vision Insurance 401(k) with 3% company match PTO and Holiday pay available as of the start date Company-subsidized life & disability insurance Free catered meals and wellness support

Physical Demand & Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The majority of the time is spent in office settings outside of the production warehouse. The operational environment includes fluctuating temperatures and high noise levels. Frequently required to sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and talk or hear. Capable of sitting for extended periods of time Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities required include close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Schedule

Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm with occasional balancing of hours.

EOE Statement - We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Exempt/Non-Exempt - Non-Exempt

This position is currently accepting applications.