Operations & Finance Associate - Chicago, IL

Archinect; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Northworks is seeking an Operations & Finance Associate to support day-to-day financial and operational functions in our Chicago studio. You will assist with project invoicing, accounts payable, consultant invoicing, financial reporting, and administrative initiatives that enable growth and efficiency.

Working with the Partner of Finance, you will help maintain accurate records, prepare reports, coordinate with project teams across offices, and contribute to process improvements while upholding

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Operations, or related field preferred.
• 1–3 years of experience in finance, operations, or administration.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Office Suite required.
• Experience with QuickBooks or similar accounting software preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with monthly project invoicing to ensure timely billing.
• Process consultant invoices, reimbursements, and accounts payable.
• Support bank reconciliations and maintain accurate records.
• Help track revenue and project financial reporting.
• Maintain spreadsheets and financial tracking tools.
• Coordinate with project teams and consultants for billing data.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Operations, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Office

QuickBooks

Job description

The Operations & Finance Associate supports the day-to-day financial and operational functions of Northworks. This position assists with project billing, accounts payable, consultant invoicing, financial reporting, and administrative initiatives that support the firm's continued growth and success. Working directly with the Partner of Finance, the Operations & Finance Associate plays a key role in maintaining efficient business operations while gaining exposure to firm management, financial planning, and operational strategy.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with monthly project invoicing to ensure timely and accurate billing.
• Process consultant invoices, employee reimbursements, and accounts payable transactions.
• Assist with bank reconciliations and maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation.
• Support revenue tracking, project financial reporting, and expense monitoring.
• Maintain and update spreadsheets, reports, and financial tracking tools.
• Coordinate with project teams and consultants to gather information necessary for billing and project administration.
• Support operational initiatives and administrative processes across multiple offices.
• Assist with maintaining organized digital and physical records related to finance and operations.
• Contribute to process improvement efforts that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and consistency across the firm.
• Collaborate with colleagues across Northworks offices to support financial and operational objectives.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, procedures, and financial controls.

Other Duties

• Assist with special projects, reporting requests, and operational initiatives as assigned.
• Support firm-wide events, programs, and administrative functions as needed.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by the Partner of Finance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Operations, or a related field preferred.
• 1-3 years of professional experience in finance, operations, administration, or a related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite required.
• Experience with QuickBooks or similar accounting software preferred.Experience working in a professional services environment preferred.

Professional Skills Needed

• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with team members across multiple offices.
• Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment when handling confidential information.
• Interest in developing a long-term career in finance, operations, or business management.

Working Conditions

• Full-time, in-office work in our Chicago studio.