Staff Accountant-Intern

Summary:

BetterLife is looking for a motivated Accounting major to join us as a Staff Accountant Intern, gaining hands-on experience that lays the groundwork for a career in accounting.

Key Responsibilities

•    Assist with preparation and posting of journal entries during the statutory monthly and quarterly close cycle
•    Support preparation of Annual Statement schedules and exhibits (e.g. Schedule D/DA investment schedules, Exhibits of Life Insurance/Benefits)
•    Perform account reconciliations as assigned (bank, commission, Securities receivable, Policy) with attention to statutory-specific treatment (admitted vs. nonadmitted assets)
•    Assist in tracking and organizing data for premium, benefit, policy loan, and inforce reporting used in statutory filings and reinsurance reporting
•    Complete and support documentation of accounting processes under the direction of senior accounting staff
•    Help maintain supporting workpapers and documentation for financial examinations and external audit requests (PBC lists), including coordination with actuarial and reinsurance data
•    Support special projects, including process improvement initiatives, system implementation, and others as required
•    Maintain organized, audit-ready files in accordance with department recordkeeping standards
•    Other duties assigned to support the statutory close calendar and departmental priorities

This job description describes the general nature and scope of responsibilities for this position.  Please note that other duties may be assigned at any time.  

What You Will Gain        

?    Direct, hands-on exposure to NAIC statutory accounting principles (SSAPs) and Annual Statement preparation — highly specialized knowledge that differentiates candidates in insurance accounting careers
?    Experience with real statutory close-cycle deliverables, reconciliations, and financial examination preparation
?    Mentorship from experienced statutory accounting professionals
?    Insight into the operations of a fraternal benefit society and the regulatory reporting framework unique to the insurance industry

Education & Experience        

?    Currently pursuing Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (Sophomore standing or above preferred)
?    Familiarity with general ledger or ERP systems
?    Prior internship or work experience in accounting, preferred
?    Interest in pursuing CPA licensure or an insurance industry career path 
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

?    Proficiency in using AI to aid in being more efficient and accurate
?    Strong self-starter and quick learner especially in learning new accounting software
?    Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (formulas, pivot tables; VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP a plus)
?    Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
?    Ability to handle confidential financial information with discretion
?    Strong written and verbal communication skills
?    Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a close-cycle environment

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position can be performed 100% remotely.

This position is performed in an office environment (could be done remotely) and requires prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Individuals must be able to lift 15 pounds at a time.

Accommodations

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.