Senior Accounting Associate

Packaging-Corporation-of-America; Opelika (AL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Packaging-Corporation-of-America in Opelika, AL is seeking a Senior Accounting Associate to maintain accounting records and produce timely reports in accordance with GAAP. The role requires accuracy in posting to the general ledger and close involvement with payroll, AP, and AR processes.

The position supports month-end closings, prepares daily/weekly financial reports, and maintains orderly payroll and file documentation.

Qualifications

• Education equivalent to high school diploma required.
• Three (3) years' previous work experience in a business office / accounting function with exposure to general ledger, payroll, and/or accounts payable functions.
• Previous experience using automated accounting/payroll system.
• Strong working knowledge of computer systems such as Microsoft Office preferably with exceptional knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

Responsibilities

• Post entries accurately and completely to the general ledger and verifies and balances 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.
• Follow up on customer accounts including customer credit issuances and collection activity as needed.
• Provide support with the processing of weekly hourly payroll.
• Assist in preparations of month end closings of the financials for the plant.
• Issue daily reports of financial matters, discrepancies, or irregularities to Controller as assigned.
• 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 materials 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.

Skills

Accounting procedures

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Confidential information handling

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associates degree or college accounting coursework

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Office

Ceridian/Dayforce payroll processing

Job description

The Senior 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.

PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Post entries accurately and completely to the general ledger and verifies and balances 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.
• Follow up on customer accounts including customer credit issuances and collection activity as needed.
• Provide support with the processing of weekly hourly payroll.
• Assist in preparations of month end closings of the financials for the plant.
• Issue daily reports of financial matters, discrepancies, or irregularities to Controller as assigned.
• 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 materials 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.
• Three (3) years' previous work experience in a business office / accounting function with exposure to general ledger, payroll, and/or accounts payable functions.
• Previous experience using automated accounting/payroll system.
• Strong working knowledge of computer systems such as Microsoft Office preferably with exceptional knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

• Associates degree or college accounting coursework.
• Previous experience in the manufacturing sector, containerboard and corrugated packaging industry.
• Experience with financial systems for invoicing, credit/collections, expense reporting, accounts payable, payroll, and general ledger.
• Previous Ceridian/Dayforce payroll processing experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Strong working knowledge of accounting procedures.
• 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.
• Able to work in a fast paced, deadline-oriented environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.
• Strong appreciation for the retention and management of confidential information.
• Above average written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate to multiple audiences and purposes.
• 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.