Associate Plant Accountant

Packaging Corporation of America; United States; On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Packaging Corporation of America is seeking an Accounting Associate to maintain accounting records and produce timely reports in accordance with GAAP. The role requires attention to detail and accuracy in a fast paced environment.

Responsibilities include posting to the general ledger, processing accounts payable and receivable transactions, and assisting with weekly payroll. You will help with month-end closings and maintain organized files, ensuring confidential handling of information.

Qualifications

• Education equivalent to high school diploma required.
• 1+ year experience in an office or accounting function with exposure to general ledger, payroll, and/or accounts payable.
• Solid working knowledge of accounting procedures.
• Strong Excel and MS Office proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Post entries accurately to the general ledger and balance accounts.
• Post, validate and process accounts payable transactions, including batch payments.
• Post, audit and collect accounts receivable transactions with adjustments as needed.
• Provide payroll processing support on a weekly basis.
• Assist in month‑end closings of financials for the plant.
• Maintain accounting and payroll files and backup documentation per policies.
• Provide general administrative support including filing and correspondence.
• Respond to corporate requests and ensure timely submission of requirements.

Skills

Analytical skills

Deadline oriented

Organizational skills

Listening skills

Communication

Education

High school diploma

Associate degree

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Office

Job description

Accounting Associate

Salary Range - $42,000.00 - $65,000.00

The Accounting Associate is responsible for maintaining all accounting records and producing timely reports, analysis, and statements in accordance with company policies and generally accepted accounting principles.

Principal Accountabilities

• Post entries accurately and completely to the general ledger. Verify and balance general ledger accounts.
• Post, validate and process accounts payable transactions including the preparation of batch payment.
• Post, audit and collect accounts receivable transactions by making adjustments and corrections as appropriate.
• Provide support with the processing of weekly hourly payroll.
• Assist in the preparations of month‑end closings of the financials for the plant.
• Maintain accounting and payroll files and backup documentation in accordance with PCA's record keeping policies.
• Provide general administrative support including electronic and physical file organization and retrieval, copying material and conducting electronic or fax correspondence as needed.
• Respond to corporate requests and cyclical filings in accordance with the Controller's direction. Maintain follow-up system to ensure timely submission of requirements.

Basic Requirements

• Education equivalent to high school diploma required.
• 1+ year previous work experience in a business office / accounting function with exposure to general ledger, payroll, and/or accounts payable functions.
• Solid working knowledge of accounting procedures.
• Strong working knowledge of computer systems such as Microsoft Office preferably with exceptional knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

Preferred Requirements

• Associate’s degree or college accounting coursework.
• Previous experience in the manufacturing sector, containerboard and corrugated packaging industry.
• Experience with computer software that handles accounts payable and general ledger.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to handle detail-oriented tasks and review multiple documents and reports.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, deadline-oriented environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.
• Strong appreciation for the retention and management of confidential information.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle numerous details, deadlines, and requests.
• Strong listening, evaluating, and organizational skills.
• Able to work flexible hours or overtime as needed.

Previous experience working in a team environment preferred, or a strong understanding of the importance of open communication and information sharing among co‑workers.