Staff Accountant

Staff AccountantLocation: Bedford Park, ILWork Arrangement: Fully onsiteCompensation: $70,000–$85,000 annuallyPosition OverviewA financially stable, family-owned manufacturing organization is seeking a hands-on Staff Accountant to join its Finance team. This position offers broad exposure to general accounting, payroll administration, and financial reporting within a multi-entity environment.Reporting directly to senior finance leadership, the Staff Accountant will support the full accounting cycle while taking ownership of weekly payroll processing. The ideal candidate has a strong general ledger foundation, experience in a manufacturing environment, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced setting.This is an excellent opportunity for an accounting professional looking to expand their skill set, work closely with executive leadership, and grow within an established organization.Key ResponsibilitiesGeneral Ledger: Prepare and record journal entries, maintain accurate financial records, and support general accounting activities across multiple entities.Month-End Close: Assist with month-end close procedures, account reconciliations, and financial reporting.Financial Reporting: Prepare and analyze balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.Payroll Administration: Process and submit weekly payroll, maintain accurate payroll records, and ensure compliance with company policies and procedures.Accounts Payable and Receivable: Support AP and AR functions, including transaction processing and account maintenance.Inventory and Manufacturing Accounting: Assist with inventory control, manufacturing transactions, and related accounting activities.Fixed Assets: Maintain fixed asset records and support related accounting processes.Balance Sheet Reconciliations: Perform monthly reconciliations and investigate discrepancies to ensure financial accuracy.Budgeting and Forecasting: Provide financial information and analysis to support budgeting, forecasting, and planning.Financial Analysis: Monitor expenses, analyze variances, identify trends, and recommend opportunities for cost savings.Audit Support: Assist with audit preparation, supporting documentation, and special accounting projects.Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve accounting procedures, strengthen controls, and increase efficiency.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting required.3–5 years of accounting experience, preferably within a manufacturing environment.Strong general ledger experience and understanding of accounting principles.Experience with month-end close and balance sheet reconciliations.Prior payroll experience required; previous Paylocity experience is not necessary.Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and general accounting software.Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and problem-solving abilities.Strong work ethic, dependability, and ability to work collaboratively.Self-starter who takes initiative and works effectively with limited supervision.Preferred QualificationsManufacturing industry experience.Inventory accounting and cost accounting knowledge.Experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, and fixed assets.Familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics Great Plains or a similar ERP system.Experience supporting multiple legal entities.Exposure to manufacturing transactions and operational accounting.Compensation and BenefitsBase salary of $70,000–$85,000, depending on experience.Opportunity to work directly with senior finance leadership.Broad exposure to multiple accounting functions and legal entities.Potential for professional development and long-term career growth.Why Consider This Opportunity?Join a financially stable, family-owned organization with a strong operational presence in the personal care manufacturing industry. This role offers direct access to senior finance leadership, a broad range of accounting responsibilities, and the opportunity to build expertise across general accounting, payroll, inventory, and manufacturing operations.The organization is looking to hire quickly for the right long-term fit.Interested candidates are encouraged to apply!