Accountant I - 2027 Graduate Development Program

Work180; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision coverage

Tuition reimbursement

401(k) with company match

Commuter benefits

Job summary

National Interstate Insurance Company is seeking a capable accounting professional for its Graduate Development Program, Ignition, based in Richfield, Ohio. The role focuses on preparing financial statements, GL reconciliation, and supporting audits while developing cross‑functional skills.

You will work on budgeting and forecasting, with on‑site presence four days a week and one day remote, contributing to a fast‑paced, collaborative environment that values integrity and accountability.

Qualifications

• Solid understanding of accounting principles (GAAP).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Effective interpersonal and written communication.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements per GAAP.
• Maintain and reconcile general ledger accounts for accuracy.
• Prepare journal entries and assist with month‑end/year‑end closing.
• Coordinate accounting matters with other departments and external customers.
• Support audits by providing required documentation.
• Conduct financial analysis to spot trends and variances.
• Prepare ad‑hoc reports and analyses as needed.
• Support internal control improvements and compliance.
• Assist in budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.

Skills

Accounting knowledge

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Cross‑department collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or equivalent experience

Job description

National Interstate is a member of Great American Insurance Group. As one of the leading commercial transportation insurers in the nation, we offer risk financing solutions in all 50 states tailored to meet the needs of a wide variety of transportation classes. Our offerings include traditional insurance and innovative alternative risk transfer (ART) programs, including more than a dozen group captive programs catering to niche wheels markets. We are proud to be a multiple Northcoast 99 winner and Cleveland Plain Dealer Top Workplace in Northeast Ohio. It is because of our talented and dedicated team that we are able to live out our company values of integrity, transparency, fairness, accountability, empowerment and collaboration with each transaction we make. If you are ready to join an engaging and driven team such as ours, we would love to hear from you!

At Great American, we value and recognize the benefits derived when people with different backgrounds and experiences work together to achieve business results. Our goal is to create a workplace where all employees feel included, empowered, and enabled to perform at their best.

This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship.

Since 1989, National Interstate has specialized in serving the insurance needs of the wheels-based transportation industry. Our steadfast focus on developing niche expertise in product design, loss control and claim services has made National Interstate one of the most respected names in commercial transportation insurance today. (https://natl.com/)

National Interstate and Vanliner’s Graduate Development Program, Ignition

Ignition, National Interstate’s Graduate Development Program, is a month-long cohort that equips recent graduates with a comprehensive understanding of our business through a blend of instructor‑led, self‑paced, and hands‑on training. Participants gain a strong understanding of our business model, value proposition, and how individual roles impact the organization while becoming immersed in our company culture. Through expert‑led sessions, this program explores cross‑functional areas, develops key professional skills, and strengthens relationships through team‑building and social activities.

The program is taking place in June 2027. The role will be expected to work in the Richfield, Ohio office.

National Interstate’s culture is built on connection, shared learning, and strong relationships. To support this, employees in this role are expected to be on‑site four days a week, with the flexibility to work one day remotely. Core in‑office days are Tuesday–Thursday, with the fourth day determined by business needs.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

• Assists in preparing and reviewing monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and other relevant regulations.
• Maintains and reconciles general ledger accounts, ensuring accuracy and completeness of financial records.
• Prepares journal entries and assists with month-end and year-end closing activities.
• Assists in coordinating moderately complex accounting matters and reporting with other departments, locations, divisions, and external customers.
• Supports internal and external audits, ensuring the availability of necessary documentation.
• Assists with financial analysis, identifying trends, variances, and areas for improvement.
• Participates in preparing ad‑hoc financial reports and analyses as needed.
• Supports internal control improvements to ensure adherence to company policies and procedures.
• Assists in budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or a related field or equivalent experience.

Scope of Job/Qualifications:

Demonstrates technical knowledge of various accounting principles and practices. Works on assignments of moderate technical and logistical complexity. Develops and maintains knowledge of company policies, GAAP, and financial reporting standards. Demonstrates foundational analytical and problem‑solving skills. Demonstrates effective interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment and across departments.

Company:

NIIC National Interstate Insurance Company

Benefits:

We offer competitive benefits packages for full‑time and part‑time employees*. Full‑time employees have access to medical, dental, and vision coverage, wellness plans, parental leave, adoption assistance, and tuition reimbursement. Full‑time and eligible part‑time employees also enjoy Paid Time Off and paid holidays, a 401(k) plan with company match, an employee stock purchase plan, and commuter benefits.

Compensation varies by role, level, and location and is influenced by skills, experience, and business needs. Your recruiter will provide details about benefits and specific compensation ranges during the hiring process. Learn more at http://www.gaig.com/careers.

*Excludes seasonal employees and interns.