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Staff Accountant

Principal Manufacturing

Broadview, IL 60155 • $68,000 to $81,000 / yr • 9/10/2026

Job Description

Job Description

Staff Accountant- Manufacturing

Principal Manufacturing a leader in fineblanking, conventional stamping and plastic injection molding is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Staff Accountant to support the day-to-day accounting operations of the company. This position is responsible for maintaining the general ledger, assisting with month-end and year-end close processes, supporting payroll activities, preparing financial reports, and assisting with annual audits and physical inventory activities. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of GAAP, excellent analytical skills, and experience working in a manufacturing environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

General Ledger Accounting

  • Prepare and post journal entries.
  • Reconcile general ledger accounts and investigate discrepancies.
  • Maintain accuracy and integrity of accounting records.
  • Assist with fixed asset accounting and depreciation schedules.
  • Support accounts payable and accounts receivable activities as needed.

Month-End and Year-End Close

  • Assist in monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close activities.
  • Prepare account reconciliations and supporting schedules.
  • Analyze variances and provide explanations for unusual account activity.
  • Support preparation of financial statements and management reports.
  • Ensure compliance with accounting policies and procedures.

Payroll Support

  • Assist with processing weekly and bi-weekly payroll.
  • Review payroll reports for accuracy and completeness.
  • Reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts.
  • Maintain payroll records and assist with payroll audits and reporting requirements.

Audit and Compliance

  • Support external auditors during annual financial audits.
  • Prepare schedules, reports, and documentation requested by auditors.
  • Assist with internal control compliance and documentation.
  • Ensure adherence to GAAP and company accounting policies.

Inventory and Manufacturing Support

  • Assist with physical inventory counts and cycle count programs.
  • Reconcile inventory records to the general ledger.
  • Analyze inventory variances and investigate discrepancies.
  • Support cost accounting and inventory valuation activities.
  • Work closely with operations and production teams to ensure inventory accuracy.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Maintain organized accounting records and supporting documentation.
  • Assist with budgeting and forecasting activities.
  • Support special projects and process improvement initiatives.
  • Perform other accounting and administrative duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
  • CPA designation or CPA candidate preferred.

Experience

  • 3-5 years of accounting experience preferred.
  • Manufacturing accounting experience strongly preferred.
  • Experience with payroll processing and inventory accounting preferred.
  • Experience supporting external audits preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

  • Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel, including PivotTables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and financial analysis functions.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Outlook, Word, and accounting/ERP systems.
  • Experience with manufacturing ERP systems preferred.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods.
  • Ability to periodically participate in physical inventory counts, including walking through manufacturing and warehouse areas.

We offer paid holidays, PTO, 401K matching and medical benefits.