Job brief
We are seeking a detail-oriented Staff Accountant to join our finance team and take ownership of critical accounting processes that ensure accurate financial reporting. In this role, you will manage the month-end close cycle, prepare journal entries and reconciliations, and work directly with our external audit firm to support year-end procedures. You will have the opportunity to streamline accounting workflows, implement process improvements, and contribute to financial analysis that drives business decisions. If you excel at precision work and want to grow your career in a collaborative finance environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Key highlights
- Prepare monthly journal entries for accruals, deferrals, and reclassifications using NetSuite or SAP ERP systems
- Execute comprehensive month-end close procedures including balance sheet reconciliations and variance analysis reporting
- Support external CPA firms during quarterly reviews and annual audits by preparing PBC lists and supporting documentation
- Analyze general ledger accounts for unusual activity and investigate discrepancies to ensure GAAP compliance
What is a Staff Accountant?
A Staff Accountant is a finance professional who maintains accurate financial records, prepares journal entries, and ensures compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and regulatory requirements. Working extensively with ERP systems such as NetSuite, SAP, or QuickBooks Enterprise, Staff Accountants execute month-end close procedures, perform account reconciliations, and support external audit processes. Their meticulous work forms the foundation for reliable financial reporting, tax compliance, and strategic business decision-making across organizations of all sizes.
What does a Staff Accountant do?
Day-to-day, a Staff Accountant posts journal entries to the general ledger, reconciles bank statements and balance sheet accounts, and prepares accruals for expenses and revenue recognition. They work closely with accounts payable and accounts receivable teams to resolve discrepancies, collaborate with external CPA firms during year-end audits, and prepare supporting documentation for tax filings and regulatory submissions. Staff Accountants also analyze variance reports, assist with budget vs. actual comparisons, and use advanced Excel functions including pivot tables and VLOOKUP to prepare monthly financial packages for management review.
Key responsibilities
- Prepare monthly journal entries for accruals, deferrals, and reclassifications using NetSuite or SAP ERP systems
- Execute comprehensive month-end close procedures including balance sheet reconciliations and variance analysis reporting
- Maintain accurate accounts payable and accounts receivable records, resolving discrepancies with vendors and customers
- Support external CPA firms during quarterly reviews and annual audits by preparing PBC lists and supporting documentation
- Calculate and record depreciation schedules for fixed assets using straight-line and accelerated methods
- Prepare sales tax returns, 1099 forms, and other regulatory filings in compliance with federal and state requirements
- Analyze general ledger accounts for unusual activity and investigate discrepancies to ensure GAAP compliance
- Assist with budgeting and forecasting processes by providing historical data analysis and trend identification
Requirements and skills
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field with strong foundation in GAAP principles
- 2-4 years of experience in staff accounting, public accounting, or corporate finance roles
- Proficiency in ERP systems such as NetSuite, SAP, QuickBooks Enterprise, or Sage with general ledger experience
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and financial modeling capabilities
- Knowledge of month-end close procedures, journal entries, and balance sheet reconciliation processes
- Understanding of tax compliance requirements and experience preparing supporting documentation for CPA firms
- CPA certification or progress toward CPA exam completion preferred but not required
- Strong analytical skills with ability to identify discrepancies and propose corrective actions to management
FAQs
What does a Staff Accountant do during month-end close?
During month-end close, a Staff Accountant posts accrual and adjustment journal entries, reconciles all balance sheet accounts including bank statements and credit card accounts, and prepares variance analysis reports comparing actual results to budget. They work with AR and AP teams to ensure all transactions are recorded in the correct period, calculate depreciation expenses, and prepare financial statement packages for management review. The entire close process typically takes 5-10 business days depending on company size and complexity.
What skills and qualifications does a Staff Accountant need?
A Staff Accountant typically needs a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, 2-4 years of relevant experience, and strong proficiency in ERP systems like NetSuite, SAP, or QuickBooks Enterprise. They must understand GAAP principles, have advanced Excel skills for financial analysis, and experience with journal entries, reconciliations, and audit support. Many employers prefer candidates who are CPA-eligible or working toward CPA certification, along with knowledge of tax compliance and regulatory reporting requirements.
Who does a Staff Accountant work with in an organization?
A Staff Accountant collaborates closely with the Accounting Manager or Controller, works with accounts payable and receivable clerks on transaction processing, and coordinates with external CPA firms during audits and tax season. They also interact with department managers to gather supporting documentation, work with payroll administrators on expense allocations, and communicate with bank representatives to resolve account discrepancies. During budget season, they may support FP&A teams with historical data analysis and variance explanations.
What is the career path and salary range for Staff Accountants?
Staff Accountants typically earn between $45,000-$65,000 annually depending on location, company size, and experience level. The natural career progression leads to Senior Accountant roles ($55,000-$75,000), then Accounting Manager positions ($70,000-$95,000), and potentially Controller or Finance Director roles. Many Staff Accountants pursue their CPA certification to accelerate advancement, and some transition into specialized areas like tax accounting, audit, or financial planning and analysis. Companies often provide study support and bonuses for CPA completion.