Staff Accountant

SUMMARY

Perform a wide variety of general accounting functions, including classifying and coding data, preparing journal entries, analyzing/reconciling general ledger accounts, assisting in the preparation of monthly reports, researching and resolving discrepancies, maintaining records, and assisting on various projects as they occur. This position works closely with internal departments and committees to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting while identifying opportunities to improve accounting processes

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following:

• Prepare journal entries with appropriate supporting documentation in accordance with company policies and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
• Perform month-end, year-end, and other period-end close activities. 
• Verify and process accounting transactions for multiple committees and business units. 
• Support treasury and cash operations, including verification of deposits, reconciliation of cash activity, coordination with armored courier services, and interaction with banking partners. 
• Manage credit card transactions including research, reconciliation, and the processing of chargebacks.
• Manage credit card machine distribution.
• Perform period-end account closing activities and reconciliations, assist with preparation of periodic financial reports.
• Follow documentation retention policy to maintain accounting files.
• Proactively communicate the status of assigned work, identify potential issues or delays, and escalate concerns as appropriate.
• Prioritize workload to meet established deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy. 
• Assist with documenting accounting procedures and identifying opportunities to improve processes and efficiency.
• Adhere to established accounting policies, internal controls, and company procedures. 
• Assist with special projects and perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

• BS/BA degree in accounting; one to two years of progressive experience and/or training or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple assignments and consistently meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to take ownership of assigned responsibilities and follow tasks through to completion.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to proactively communicate work status, priorities, and potential issues.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with team members and internal stakeholders.
• Ability to build positive working relationships with Finance and non-Finance personnel.
• Positive attitude with a willingness to learn, adapt, and continuously improve processes.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, seasonal environment with changing priorities.
• Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling financial information.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel 
• Basic understanding of US GAAP, accounting processes and procedures, and business ethics.
• Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Knowledge of NetSuite a plus

Reasoning Ability 

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to analyze information, identify issues, evaluate alternatives, and recommend practical solutions. Exercise sound judgment in handling routine accounting matters and know when to escalate issues appropriately.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The employee may be required to sit, stand, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. During the Show, the employee may be required to frequently walk to various places on the grounds. The employee may be required to lift and/or move 15 or more pounds. Requires good manual dexterity and multi-limb coordination. Extended work hours required, especially during peak periods. The employee may be on feet for up to twelve hours per day during set-up and the Show.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to dust, chemicals and animals at various times.