Staff Accountant at Chicago Architecture Center – Chicago, Illinois

Job Title: Staff Accountant

Location: Chicago Architecture Center

Department: Finance

Salary Rate: $70,000.00 - $75,000.00

Reports To: Accounting Manager

FLSA Status: Full-time Salary, Exempt

Job Summary: We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Staff Accountant to join our accounting team. This role is responsible for supporting day-to-day financial operations, ensuring accurate and timely recording of financial transactions, and assisting with month-end and year-end close processes. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of accounting principles, strong analytical skills, be proficient in NetSuite software, and be able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. This position offers an excellent opportunity for career growth and development within our organization.

This role will work in office 3 days out of the week and 2 days remotely.

Essential Functions/ Job Responsibilities

• Prepare journal entries to accurately record financial transactions.
• Prepare month-end reconciliation schedules, including but not limited to - accounts receivable, fixed assets, prepaid expense amortization, investment holdings, credit cards payable and other accounts payable.
• Support month-end and year-end closing activities.
• Assist with cash, check and ACH deposits, ensuring they are recorded correctly and promptly.
• Send out weekly financial reports, including lockbox reports and ACH deposit reports to relevant departments
• Prepare monthly sales tax reports for retail store transactions.
• Assist in the preparation of financial statements and reports.
• Maintain and organize financial documentation and support files.
• Assist with audits and tax filings.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and organizational policies.
• Continuously identify opportunities to improve processes, streamline workflows, and enhance efficiency.
• Collaborate with other departments to support smooth operations and optimize efficiency in financial processes and procedures.
• Assist with financial system implementations.
• Contribute to the creation and revision of the finance manual, ensuring it reflects current accounting policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working conditions

• Supplemental Information to Assist Organizations in Their Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• http://www.niqca.org/documents/ADAPhysicalRequirementsChecklist.pdf

Physical requirements

• Supplemental Information to Assist Organizations in Their Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• http://www.niqca.org/documents/ADAPhysicalRequirementsChecklist.pdf

Benefits & Perks

• Health Insurance: Full-time positions are eligible for Medical, dental, and vision coverage with employer contributions
• Retirement: 401(k) retirement plan with employer match up to 4%, eligibility for all employees.
• Paid Time Off: Full-time positions are eligible for Vacation, Personal, Floating Holidays, and paid holidays; Part-Time positions are eligible for Paid Leave and Sick Leave.
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid work schedule (3 days in office, 2 days remote)
• Wellness & Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Additional Benefits: Life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting/finance or related field is required.
• Two – three years proven experience as a Staff Accountant or similar role.
• Knowledge of accounting principles and best practices in accounting/finance.
• Proficiency in accounting software and ERP systems.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail to ensure accuracy in data entry.
• Excellent communication skills to interact effectively with internal stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with process improvement initiatives and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Proficient with MS Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred:

• Experience in managing high invoice volumes or multi-entity accounting.
• Familiarity and interest in mission-based, nonprofit, and/or arts and cultural organizations.
• Knowledge of NetSuite, Paylocity and Ventra Platforms