Accountant (Poway)

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Staff Accountant to join our finance and accounting team. This individual will play a key role in maintaining accurate financial records, supporting financial reporting, managing account reconciliations, and ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and applicable regulatory requirements.

The Senior Staff Accountant will work closely with company leadership, finance professionals, and cross-functional departments to support financial operations, improve accounting processes, and provide meaningful financial insights. This role will also contribute to budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, and internal controls, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing and operational accounting.

The ideal candidate brings strong analytical skills, extensive accounting experience, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Experience with ERP systems, SAP, and manufacturing accounting is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & General Accounting

• Maintain accurate and detailed financial records, general ledger accounts, and supporting documentation.
• Prepare journal entries, account analyses, and reconciliations to support monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes.
• Prepare and review financial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with GAAP.
• Perform monthly balance sheet reconciliations and reconcile bank statements and general ledger accounts.
• Maintain detailed schedules and supporting documentation for asset and liability accounts.
• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of general ledger and subsidiary ledger accounts.
• Identify and resolve discrepancies, variances, and inconsistencies in financial records.

Financial Planning & Analysis

• Assist in the development, review, and maintenance of annual operating budgets and financial projections.
• Analyze business operations, financial trends, costs, revenues, and financial commitments to support forecasting and strategic decision-making.
• Monitor and analyze financial performance, identifying trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement.
• Track and analyze expenses associated with manufacturing, production, and operational activities.
• Support cost accounting activities, including standard costing, inventory valuation, and fixed asset depreciation.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, operational efficiencies, and improved financial performance.
• Provide financial analysis and recommendations to support business objectives.

Manufacturing & Operational Accounting

• Support manufacturing accounting processes, including inventory tracking, production costing, and operational expense analysis.
• Maintain accurate inventory-related financial records and assist with budgeting and forecasting for manufacturing operations.
• Analyze standard costs, production variances, and manufacturing expenses to identify discrepancies and opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, purchasing, and other departments to ensure accurate financial reporting and cost management.
• Monitor fixed assets, depreciation schedules, and related financial records.

Cash Management & Treasury Support

• Monitor daily cash balances and forecast cash requirements to support effective cash flow management.
• Maintain accurate cash flow records and assist with financial planning and liquidity management.
• Reconcile bank accounts and investigate discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Maintain supporting documentation and worksheets to ensure compliance with banking requirements and receivables-related obligations.
• Support accounts payable, purchasing, and treasury activities as needed.

Audit, Compliance & Internal Controls

• Prepare documentation and supporting schedules for internal and external audits.
• Respond to audit inquiries and provide accurate financial information to auditors and internal stakeholders.
• Conduct internal audits and assist in evaluating the effectiveness of financial controls.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, applicable US tax regulations, and company policies.
• Maintain accurate documentation for accounts payable, purchasing, and other financial transactions.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen internal controls, improve accounting procedures, and mitigate financial risk.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Take ownership of accounting systems and ERP functionality, ensuring accurate financial data and efficient accounting processes.
• Maintain and improve accounting procedures, reporting processes, and system controls.
• Utilize financial software and Microsoft Excel to analyze data, prepare reports, and support accounting operations.
• Identify opportunities to automate processes, improve reporting accuracy, and enhance operational efficiency.
• Provide guidance and support to junior accounting staff as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and general accounting principles.
• Experience with financial reporting, journal entries, account reconciliations, and month-end close processes.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and financial analysis skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Ability to interpret, analyze, and communicate financial reports and accounting data.
• Working knowledge of US tax regulations and financial compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with finance, operations, and company leadership.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Familiarity with SAP or other ERP/accounting systems.
• Experience with cost accounting, standard costing, inventory accounting, and manufacturing financial analysis.
• Experience supporting internal and external audits.
• Prior experience mentoring or providing guidance to junior accounting staff.