SR. Accounting Associate

Packaging Corporation of America; Vevay Township (MI); On-site; USD 46,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation

401k plan

Health insurance

Holiday pay

Job summary

Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is seeking a Senior Accounting Associate to maintain accounting records and produce timely reports in line with GAAP and company policy. The role includes general ledger entries, accounts payable and receivable processing, and payroll support at PCA facilities in Michigan.

The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, 3 years in an accounting function, and strong Excel skills.

Qualifications

• Education equivalent to a high school diploma.
• Three (3) years of prior work experience in a business office or accounting function with exposure to general ledger, payroll, and/or accounts payable functions.
• Experience using an automated accounting/payroll system.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

Responsibilities

• Post entries to the general ledger and balance accounts.
• Process accounts payable transactions and batch payments.
• Manage accounts receivable via adjustments and collections as needed.
• Support weekly hourly payroll processing.
• Assist in month-end closings for the plant.
• Issue daily financial reports and note discrepancies for the Controller.

Skills

Accounting procedures

Excel proficiency

Financial reporting

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma equivalent

Associate degree / accounting coursework

Tools

Ceridian/Dayforce

Automated accounting system

Job description

As a Fortune 500 company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is a leader in corrugated packaging solutions. Our corrugated packaging business focuses on helping customers – large and small – package, transport, and display products. The Senior Accounting Associate maintains accounting records and produces timely reports, analysis, and statements in accordance with company policies and generally accepted accounting principles.

Responsibilities

• Post entries accurately and completely to the general ledger and verify and balance general ledger accounts.
• Post, validate, and process accounts payable transactions, including 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 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 and maintain a follow‑up system to ensure timely submission of requirements.

Basic Requirements

• Education equivalent to a high school diploma.
• Three (3) years of prior work experience in a business office or accounting function with exposure to general ledger, payroll, and/or accounts payable functions.
• Previous experience using an automated accounting/payroll system.
• 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 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 or requests concurrently.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to handle detail‑oriented tasks and review multiple documents and reports.
• 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.

Compensation and Benefits

• Starting salary range for position: $46,000 - $69,000.
• Bonus: Annual – Based upon individual contribution and overall company performance.
• Paid vacation: Three (3) weeks per calendar year. Pro‑rated vacation during the initial year of hire based upon start date within the calendar year.
• Paid holidays.
• Within the first 30 days of employment, an employee (and their dependents) is eligible to enroll in certain benefit coverages – medical, dental, and vision – and are automatically enrolled in life, AD&D, and disability coverages.
• Upon hire, an employee is automatically enrolled in the 401k plan. The plan offers both pre‑tax and Roth contribution options along with employer‑provided matching contributions.
• Disclaimer: The Compensation and Benefits information in this posting represents PCA's good faith and reasonable estimate of what it may pay for this position. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.