Staff Accountant

Staff Accountant

Industry: Agriculture/Farming Operations
Reports To: Controller or Finance Manager

Position Summary

The Staff Accountant is responsible for supporting the day-to-day accounting and financial operations of a growing agricultural business. This role ensures accurate financial reporting, maintains accounting records, supports month-end and year-end close processes, and helps ensure compliance with company policies, agricultural regulations, and financial controls. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced agricultural environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

General Accounting

• Prepare and post journal entries, accruals, and adjusting entries.
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure accuracy of financial records.
• Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes.
• Reconcile bank accounts, credit cards, and balance sheet accounts.
• Review account activity and investigate discrepancies.

Accounts Payable and Receivable

• Review invoices for proper coding and approval.
• Process vendor payments and ensure timely payment of obligations.
• Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies.
• Support customer invoicing and collection activities as needed.
• Monitor aging reports and follow up on outstanding balances.

Agricultural Cost Accounting

• Track and analyze farming, harvesting, packing, and operational costs.
• Assist in monitoring labor, equipment, irrigation, and input expenses.
• Prepare cost reports by ranch, crop, field, or production unit.
• Support inventory valuation and fixed asset accounting.
• Maintain records related to farming operations and agricultural assets.

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Prepare monthly financial reports and supporting schedules.
• Assist with annual audits and tax preparation requests.
• Maintain documentation in accordance with company policies and accounting standards.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and financial procedures.
• Support grant, contract, or government reporting requirements when applicable.

Budgeting and Analysis

• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and forecasts.
• Analyze budget-to-actual variances and provide explanations.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
• Support management with financial analysis and special projects.

Administrative Support

• Maintain organized accounting files and records.
• Assist with inventory reconciliations and fixed asset tracking.
• Participate in system implementations and process improvement initiatives.
• Perform other accounting and administrative duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field required.

Experience

• 5 years of accounting experience preferred.
• Experience in agriculture, farming, food processing, manufacturing, or related industries is highly desirable.
• Experience with ERP systems and accounting software preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of GAAP and accounting principles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with payroll, inventory, and cost accounting preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage deadlines and work independently.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and work on a computer for extended periods.
• Occasional visits to ranches, packing facilities, warehouses, or operational sites.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Stable and growing agricultural organization

Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.