Senior Accountant

Job Title: Senior Accountant. Location: WHEELING, IL 60090 (Chicagoland, Tulsa, OK or Denver, CO). Salary: $85,000 – $95,000 per year. George J. Priester Aviation is a premier aviation services company providing comprehensive aircraft management, charter, maintenance, and flight operations solutions. With decades of experience supporting owner-managed and client-focused flight departments, we are known for our commitment to safety, professionalism, and white-glove service. Our team operates in a dynamic Part 135 and Part 91 environment, supporting diverse aircraft types and mission profiles across the U.S. and internationally. At George J. Priester Aviation, we value integrity, collaboration, and accountability and we take pride in building long-term careers within aviation. Position Summary This position is responsible for managing general ledger accounting and overseeing billing activities for George J. Priester Aviation and affiliated companies. The role supports the Director of Finance, Controller and Chief Financial Officer in all financial matters, ensuring the accurate preparation of financial statements, tax filings, and compliance reports. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Prepare monthly reconciliations for assigned general ledger accounts, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Reconcile daily bank transactions for all cash and investment accounts. Prepare and submit sales/use tax returns and remittances on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis. Manage and process billings for managed accounts. Produce journal entries with detailed supporting documentation and review journal entries prepared by other team members. Upload and integrate data from multiple systems into the accounting software (including fuel, vendor invoices, banking, flight control, operations, and maintenance). Assist in the monthly general ledger close process, including month‑end reporting for management. Investigate discrepancies and variances in general ledger accounts, financial statements, and budgets. Prepare accurate and timely financial reports for related companies on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis. Provide financial analysis and recommendations for complex transactions, ensuring compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Assist with the preparation of audit and review schedules as assigned. Serve as a subject matter expert for general ledger processes, providing guidance and training to accounts payable, billing, and accounts receivable staff. Maintain and document accounting procedures and processes in a desk procedure manual. Evaluate and improve accounting department processes, focusing on enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and reducing errors. Manage federal tax return compliance, including Federal Excise Tax (FET), INS, APHIS, and Canadian tax filings. Oversee monthly sales tax compliance and filings for related companies. Oversee the management and maintenance of accounting and reporting systems (Microsoft Dynamics Business Central, Ramp, and others). Assist in the development of annual budgets and forecasts. Lead special projects as assigned by the Director of Finance. Stay current with legal and regulatory requirements by engaging with professional societies, attending seminars, and reviewing accounting periodicals. Provide financial insights to management regarding potential changes to practices and procedures. Qualifications Strong attention to detail with the ability to understand broader business operations and financial drivers. Positive attitude with a strong focus on customer service and flexibility. High degree of initiative, problem‑solving ability, and adaptability. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal teams and external partners. Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and manage time‑sensitive tasks effectively. Experience with accounting software, particularly Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, is preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, with advanced skills in Excel. Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance is required. A minimum of 5-8 years of full‑cycle accounting experience is required. Experience in the aviation industry is a plus. This is an exempt position which requires flexibility to meet the demands of business. Compensation & Benefits George J. Priester Aviation offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support the health, financial security, and well‑being of our team members, including: Health & Wellness Medical coverage (PPO and High Deductible plans) through Blue Cross Blue Shield Dental and vision coverage Company‑paid short‑term and long‑term disability insurance Company‑paid basic life and AD&D insurance, with optional supplemental coverage Voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity plans Financial & Retirement 401(k) retirement plan with company match Annual company‑funded profit‑sharing contributionHealth Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), and Dependent Care FSA options Time Off & Work‑Life Balance Paid company holidays Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO), subject to scheduling guidelines Sick leave in accordance with company policy Additional Benefits Tuition reimbursement program Company‑paid legal services and identity theft protection Company‑paid pet insurance for dogs or cats Employee assistance and support resources Benefits eligibility and offerings may vary based on role, employment type, and client program. Work Environment This position operates in a fast‑paced aviation environment that may include travel, variable schedules, and close coordination with flight crews, maintenance teams, and client representatives. Equal Opportunity Employer George J. Priester Aviation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr