Omaha Plant Accountant

Colonial Group; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Group in Omaha, NE is seeking a Principal Accountant to lead monthly close, forecast costs, and oversee payroll and GL activities. You will ensure accuracy, compliance with GAAP, and timely reporting, while guiding accounting staff.

The role emphasizes strong analytical skills, faultless attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Prior experience with ERP systems and payroll is preferred.

Qualifications

• Education with accounting/finance focus; professional experience preferred.
• Proficiency in GAAP and internal controls is required.
• Experience with payroll, GL, AP, and financial reporting is preferred.
• Strong Excel and general IT literacy are essential.

Responsibilities

• Close monthly, quarterly, and year-end processes accurately and timely.
• Prepare estimates, accruals, and financial reports like balance sheets and P/L.
• Resolve discrepancies and ensure compliance with policies and SOX controls.
• Forecasts analysis and variance reporting; monitor costs and trends.
• Supervise accounting associates and train junior staff.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Excel skills

Analytical mindset

Strong communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance

Tools

Accounting software

Payroll systems

ERP systems

Job description

PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, including the preparation of estimates and accruals.

Resolve accounting discrepancies and irregularities.

Comply with financial policies and procedures including compliance with PCA’s SOX 404 Key Controls.

Engage in general accounting activities including the accurate and complete preparation, maintenance, and reconciliation of general ledger accounts and financial reports, such as balance sheets, profit-loss statements, and capital expenditure reports.

Develop, maintain, and analyze forecasts, then prepare periodic reports that compare forecasts to actual costs.

Follow up on customer accounts including customer credit issuances and collection activity.

Ensure the accurate processing of the hourly payroll and related payroll/employee functions. Ensure all payroll transactions comply with company policies, as well as all state and federal requirements.

Guide, develop, and train accounting associates including assisting the Plant Controller in supervising the day-to-day activities of the accounting associates.

Prepare, examine, and analyze accounting records, financial statements, and other financial reports to assess accuracy, completeness, and conformance to reporting and procedural standards.

Analyze business operations, trends, costs, revenues, financial commitments, and obligations to project future revenues and expenses or to provide advice.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Education equivalent to a bachelor’s degree is required with a concentration or major in accounting or finance preferred.

Three (3) years of previous work experience in a business office/accounting department with exposure to general ledger, payroll, and/or accounts payable functions preferred.

Strong working knowledge of computer systems such as Microsoft Office preferably with exceptional knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

Experience with financial systems for invoicing, credit/collections, expense reporting, accounts payable, payroll, and general ledger required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Previous experience in the manufacturing sector, containerboard, and corrugated packaging industry.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Solid understanding and working knowledge of standard financial / accounting procedures, GAAP concepts and principles, and internal control.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle numerous details, deadlines, and requests.

Ability to work in a fast paced, deadline-oriented environment, prioritize assignments, and handle multiple projects and/or requests concurrently.

Strong analytical skills with the ability to handle detail-oriented tasks and review multiple documents and reports.

Above average written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate to multiple audiences and purposes.

The ability to network and build relationships with individuals of various experience and corporate positions.

Strong listening, evaluating, and organizational skills.

Previous work experience as a member of a team, or a strong understanding of the importance of open communication and information sharing between team members.