Accounting Manager

The Accounting Manager is a key member of Meridian’s Finance team, responsible for both executing and overseeing day‑to‑day accounting operations. This role combines hands‑on accounting work with ownership of core processes, ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and efficiency of the company’s financial activities. This individual will actively participate in accounting tasks while also leading the close process, reviewing work, and driving improvements across workflows and systems. The role requires someone who is comfortable working in the details while taking ownership of outcomes and resolving issues as they arise. This is a full‑time, in‑person position located in Loves Park, Illinois. Salary starts at $70,000/year. What You Will Do Daily Accounting Execution (Hands‑On) Perform and review account reconciliations, journal entries, and support documentation. Actively manage and support Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable processes. Reconcile bank accounts, credit cards, and balance sheet accounts. Review accounting data for completeness and accuracy prior to system imports. Close Process Ownership Coordinate and execute the monthly, quarterly, and year‑end close. Ensure timelines are met and financial data is accurate and complete. Identify and resolve discrepancies during the close process. Review & Oversight Review accounting work for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to procedures. Serve as a point of escalation for accounting‑related questions and issues; partner with the Corporate Accounting Firm when necessary. Ensure consistency across accounting workflows and outputs. Partner with Meridian’s Corporate CPA to support tax filing requirements and provide technical assistance. Problem Solving & Process Ownership Research accounting issues and own resolution from identification through completion. Maintain and improve accounting procedures and internal controls. Identify opportunities to streamline processes and improve efficiency across systems. Team Support Provide guidance and day‑to‑day support to accounting team members. Help establish consistency, accountability, and clarity within workflows. Qualifications Five or more years of progressive accounting experience. Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Experience with general ledger accounting, reconciliations, journal entries, and financial reporting. Demonstrated experience leading or coordinating the month‑end close. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (formulas, lookups, pivot tables, data analysis). Experience with ERP or accounting systems (Zoho Books experience preferred). Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience). What Makes You Successful Comfortable being both hands‑on and accountable for results. Strong attention to detail and follow‑through. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple deadlines. Takes ownership of issues and drives them to resolution. Organized, dependable, and self‑directed. Collaborative approach with internal teams. Focus on improving processes and eliminating inefficiencies. What We Offer Opportunities for professional growth and advancement. Collaborative and supportive team environment. Exposure to a wide variety of business operations. Comprehensive benefits package including Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance. 401(k) with company match. Generous PTO and paid holiday schedule. #J-18808-Ljbffr