Title: Finance Associate
Department: Accounting and Finance
Reports To: Accounting Manager
Supervises People: No
About the Role
The Associate Development Program is a paid 12-month full-time (temporary) experience designed for early-career individuals or those beginning their professional careers. A bachelor’s degree, relevant certification, or a combination of related education and experience aligned with the responsibilities of the role is required. Relevant coursework, training, or equivalent experience is valued. The format allows for structured professional development and hands-on learning.
In this Finance role, you will gain hands-on experience across various areas of finance, including accounts payable, accounting, and vendor management. Your contributions will play a key role in maintaining financial accuracy and efficiency within our department. This role works out of our headquarters, Halas Hall, in Lake Forest, IL, with the ability for some remote work.
2026-27 Associate Development Program Dates: Monday, June 1, 2026 – Friday, May 21, 2027
Who We Are
As one of the founding franchises of the NFL, family is the core of who we are. We believe every person matters, and we can collectively achieve success through our values of respect, championship mindset, community, and perseverance. We’re different from other companies, as our vision is to be “one of one”. We strive to be a championship football organization that consistently performs at a level of excellence on and off the field. Our people represent a vast array of cultural backgrounds, human experiences and perspectives, and we believe they, collectively and as authentic individuals, are our greatest resource. Our working environment is one where your talent and contributions are valued by the organization and the community.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the preparation and processing of invoices and expenses.
- Help reconcile balance sheet accounts and bank statements.
- Support the month-end and year-end closing process.
- Assist in preparing financial reports and statements.
- Maintain accurate financial records and ensure proper documentation.
- Prepare journal entries and assist in maintaining the general ledger.
- Perform data entry and assist with audits as required.
- Assist with various administrative tasks in the accounting department.
- Provide general support to senior accounting staff on various projects.
Qualifications
- Degree in Accounting, Finance or relative experience
- Strong understanding of basic accounting principles.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and work independently.
- Reliable transportation is required for this role.
What We Offer
We remain committed to upholding the standard of being a first-class organization and employer of choice.
COMPETITIVE INDUSTRY PAY
The Finance Associate is a full-time temporary position. This position is an HOURLY role. The expected hourly rate for this role is $21 per hour. Please note that due to job function, regular overtime (paid as time-and-a-half) is not expected.
BENEFITS & PERKS
Our Associate offerings include but are not limited to:
- Core Coverage: Optional medical coverage (employer paid premium + employee paid deductible)
- Flexible Work Location: Up to 2 days a week of remote work (role dependent)
- Time to Recharge: 5 days of paid vacation time, 3 paid sick/mental health days plus 10 paid holidays, paid time off to volunteer
- Experiences: complimentary preseason tickets for one game, ability to buy additional tickets for home & away games
- Wellness: FREE breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks, access to onsite fitness facilities and BearsFit, complimentary Calm app access
- Connection: Social events for staff and their families, Employee Resource Groups, and more
- Professional Development: complimentary LinkedIn Learning access, professional development sessions, guest speakers, mentorship
Additional information on employee benefits can be found by visiting www.ChicagoBears.com/jobs.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The Chicago Bears organization continues to deepen its commitment to establishing an inclusive, equitable work environment that reflects the diversity within our communities and fan base. We value, respect, and appreciate diversity at all levels, on and off the field, and are guided by a vision of success that includes integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into our club's DNA and culture. The Chicago Bears seek to attract, retain and develop top talent, regardless of personal characteristics, and we invite and encourage all individuals to apply for positions of interest.
The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job. Chicago Bears Football Club, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Top Skills
What We Do
Our mission is be a Championship football organization that consistently performs at a level of excellence on and off the field while making a meaningful impact and uniting our fans, partners, and community. The Chicago Bears value diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, religion or religious creed, color, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, local law, ordinance, or regulation and will not be discriminated against on these bases.
