Staff Accountant in Chicago, Illinois at JOHNSON & BELL LTD

About Johnson & Bell

Johnson & Bell, Trial Lawyers, is a leading Midwest litigation firm founded in 1975 and recognized for handling landmark cases that have gained national attention. The firm represents clients in federal and state courts throughout Illinois, Indiana, and across the country, with a focus on product liability, medical malpractice, general negligence, transportation and construction accidents, and complex commercial disputes.

Our attorneys are regularly recognized by Best Lawyers, Legal 500, Chambers, Super Lawyers, and other professional organizations for excellence in advocacy. Johnson & Bell is known for “always ready for trial”, with highly active litigators appearing regularly in Illinois and Indiana courtrooms.

Position Summary

Johnson & Bell seeks a full-time Staff Accountant to join our Chicago Office. This position supports the firm’s daily accounting operations and assists with monthly financial reporting and close activities. Reporting directly to the Controller. The position requires a detail-oriented professional with strong organizational skills, sound accounting knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a professional service environment.

Keys Responsibilities

• Prepare journal entries and supporting schedules.
• Assist with month-end and year-end close activities.
• Support financial reporting and account analysis.
• Perform bank, general ledger, and trust account reconciliations.
• Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis projects.
• Assist with payroll administration, including data review and reconciliation.
• Assist with accounts payable, including employee reimbursements, invoice review, coding, and payment preparation.
• Support client billing and revenue-related accounting functions.
• Assist with cash receipts and maintain accurate accounting records.
• Assist with client intake processes and documentation.
• Respond to accounting-related inquiries from attorneys, staff, vendors, and clients.
• Assist with audits, special projects, and process improvement initiatives.
• Perform additional accounting and administrative duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Five or more years of progressively responsible accounting experience.
• Working knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
• Experience with account reconciliations, journal entries, and general ledger support.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Preferred

• Experience in a law firm or other professional services environment.
• Familiarity with legal billing and trust accounting.
• Experience with accounting and financial management systems.

Compensation

Salary Range: $50,000 - $60,000 annually

Compensation is based on qualifications, experience, and skills.

Benefits

Johnson & Bell offers comprehensive benefits packages, including:

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Profit Sharing
• Safe Harbor Matching
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays

Work Location

This position is based in our Chicago office. Hybrid work arrangements may be available following training and evaluation after six (6) months.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Johnson & Bell is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and making employment decisions based on business needs, qualifications, merit, and job-related factors.