Lead Accountant at STARS BAY AREA INC – San Jose, California

Job Title: Lead Accountant

Reports to: Rosa Gonzalez, Owner/CEO

Position Summary:
We are seeking a finance leader who can own both the day-to-day accounting operations (Controller functions) and provide forward-looking financial strategy (CFO functions) to guide the company’s growth. This role will ensure accurate financial reporting, oversee compliance, and partner with leadership to build budgets, forecasts, and systems that support long-term success.

• Manage all entries into QuickBooks Online (QBO) and ensure P&L and Income Statements are GAAP compliant.
  
  

• Provide semi-monthly financial statements to the leadership team and close month-end books accurately and on time.
  
  

• Supervise all payroll functions, including:
  
  

  • Review and approve payroll prior to submission; monitor for discrepancies or unusual activity.
    
    

  • Oversee compliance with multi-state wage & hour regulations, employee classifications (exempt/non-exempt), and benefit-related deductions.
    
    

  • Ensure timely processing of termination checks, new hire setup, and employee status changes.
    
    

  • Partner with HR to align payroll practices with employee policies, compensation structures, and benefit programs.
    
    

  • Manage relationships with payroll vendors, evaluate system enhancements, and ensure payroll integrates effectively with accounting and reporting.
    
    

  • Develop and update payroll policies and procedures to maintain strong internal controls and readiness for audits.
    
    

  • Review and reconcile payroll-related accounts (tax withholdings, retirement contributions, benefits deductions).
    
    

• Develop and maintain payroll policies and procedures that ensure compliance with state laws.
  
  

• Establish and enforce policies and procedures for Accounts Receivable (A/R) and Accounts Payable (A/P), including:
  
  

  • Bill payment responsibilities and schedules.
    
    

  • Approval processes for purchases and contracts.
    
    

  • Integration of A/P decisions into monthly budgets.
    
    

• Prepare and organize all financial documents for the annual CPA review and financial audit.
  
  

• Ensure the company is ready to file annual federal and state taxes by providing timely and accurate records.
  
  

• Oversee and reconcile all employee benefit contributions, including 401(k) and health insurance, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations.
  
  

• Serve as primary contact for government audits, including IRS, Franchise Tax Board (FTB), and Employment Development Department (EDD).
  
  

• Respond to audit requests, coordinate with external auditors, and resolve issues promptly.
  
  

• Maintain strong internal controls and documentation to minimize audit and compliance risks.
  
  

• Create a 2026 forecast and a supporting budget that accounts for growth initiatives.
  
  

• Develop and monitor KPIs to provide actionable insights to leadership.
  
  

• Partner with the CEO and leadership team on strategic decisions related to profitability, cost management, and growth opportunities.
  
  

• Manage banking relationships, credit lines, and cash flow planning.
  
  

• Oversee risk management and internal control systems.
  
  

• Implement a CRM system to support financial and business operations.

This job description is not intended to cover every activity, duty, or responsibility required of the role. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice, as business needs evolve.