Accounting Specialist

Description

Position Summary

The Accounting Specialist is responsible for supporting daily accounting operations and maintaining accurate financial records. This position assists with accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger activities, reconciliations, financial reporting, and compliance requirements. The Accounting Specialist works closely with internal departments and external vendors, customers, and auditors to ensure financial information is accurate, timely, and properly documented.

Essential Functions

General Accounting

• Record and maintain accurate general ledger transactions.
• Prepare journal entries and assist with month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Assist in preparing financial statements, management reports, and other accounting analyses.
• Reconcile general ledger accounts and prepare supporting schedules.
• Research and resolve accounting discrepancies as needed.

Accounts Payable

• Process vendor invoices, verify accuracy, and ensure timely payment.
• Review invoices for appropriate coding, approvals, and supporting documentation.
• Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate vendor records.
• Assist with audit documentation and accounts payable reporting.

Accounts Receivable

• Generate customer invoices and accurately apply payments to customer accounts.
• Monitor outstanding receivables and follow up on overdue accounts.
• Support collection activities and communicate with customers regarding account balances.
• Reconcile accounts receivable balances and investigate discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate and complete customer account records.

Banking and Reconciliation

• Perform weekly bank reconciliations and investigate and resolve discrepancies.
• Reconcile general ledger and other balance sheet accounts.
• Prepare reconciliation schedules and supporting documentation.
• Monitor transactions for accuracy and proper recording.

Compliance and Reporting

• Maintain compliance with applicable accounting standards, internal controls, and company policies.
• Assist with internal and external audits by preparing schedules, documentation, and supporting information.
• Respond to auditor requests and assist with resolving audit-related questions.
• Support tax filings and regulatory reporting as needed.
• Maintain accurate and organized financial records in accordance with company requirements.

Other Duties

• Participate in accounting system upgrades, testing, and implementation projects.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and increased efficiency.
• Collaborate with departments such as Procurement, HR, Operations, and Management to ensure financial information is accurate and properly documented.
• Maintain organized and complete financial records and supporting documentation.
• Perform other accounting and administrative duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in accounting, finance, or a related role.
• Proficiency with accounting software such as SAP, Oracle, QuickBooks, or similar platforms.
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills, including VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, PivotTables, formulas, and data analysis.
• Working knowledge of GAAP and general accounting principles.
• Strong understanding of accounts payable, accounts receivable, reconciliations, and general ledger functions.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling financial and company information.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with internal departments and external contacts.