Staff Accountant - Full-time in Springfield, IL
Salary = $45,000-$60,000 (based on experience)
JOB SUMMARY: Supports the Finance department by maintaining the integrity of the general ledger and driving process efficiency. In addition to supervising or handling advanced AP functions, this role actively participates in the month-end close process, manages diverse balance sheet reconciliations, and partners with leadership to modernize and automate outdated accounting processes.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Month-End Close Support: Prepare and post standard journal entries, manage accrued expenses, prepaids, and assist in accelerating the month-end closing timeline.
2. Account Reconciliation: Perform regular monthly reconciliations for bank accounts, credit cards, balance sheet accounts, and sub-ledgers to ensure reporting accuracy.
3. Process Modernization: Evaluate current, manual, or legacy accounting procedures and implement modern, scalable workflows utilizing Microsoft Business Central and other digital tools to increase operational speed.
4. AP Oversight: Manage complex or escalated accounts payable workflows, ensure accurate 1099 compliance/reporting, and ensure sub-ledger systems integrate cleanly with the general ledger.
5. Data Integrity & Internal Controls: Ensure consistent compliance with internal accounting controls and maintain organized, audit-ready digital documentation for all balance sheet adjustments.
MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Assist in preparing detailed schedules and work papers for annual financial audits.
2. Collaborate with program managers to answer routine variance or transaction inquiries.
3. Crosstrain on other foundational accounting functions to provide operational backup as needed.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed in an indoor, office setting.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
· Solid understanding of GAAP (Non-profit or healthcare accounting standards a strong plus).
· Tech-savvy mindset with an active interest in system optimization, automation, and moving away from paper-heavy processes.
· Intermediate to advanced Excel skills (VLOOKUPs/XLOOKUPs, pivot tables, sumifs).
· Analytical thinker capable of spotting trends, identifying reconciliation discrepancies, and suggesting systemic fixes.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (required).
· 1-3 years of progressive accounting experience spanning reconciliations and general ledger maintenance.
· Direct hands-on experience using or implementing features within Microsoft Business Central or a similar modern ERP.
Hope is an equal opportunity employer.
#INDLP
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
- 1-3 years of progressive accounting experience, including reconciliations and general ledger maintenance
- Solid understanding of GAAP
- Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including VLOOKUPs, XLOOKUPs, pivot tables, and SUMIFS
- Experience using or implementing Microsoft Business Central or a similar modern ERP
What We Do
Since 1957, Hope has been creating hopeful futures for children with disabilities. Today, Hope provides the finest residential, educational and clinical services for thousands of individuals and families battling autism and developmental disabilities.
