Staff Accountant

American Culinary Federation; Jacksonville (FL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Staff Accountant to manage day-to-day accounting functions and provide financial oversight. This role involves cash management, month-end closing support, and budget preparation. The ideal candidate will excel in planning, organization, and interpersonal communication while ensuring accuracy in financial operations. This in-office position offers a chance to contribute to a diverse and inclusive culinary community, where your skills will help shape the future of the organization. If you are passionate about accounting and customer service, this is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact!

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of accounting experience required.
• Strong accounting knowledge and customer service expertise are necessary.

Responsibilities

• Lead cash operations and manage banking relationships.
• Assist in the preparation and implementation of the annual budget.

Skills

Accounting Knowledge

Customer Service

Planning and Organization

Problem Solving

Interpersonal Communication

Education

Associate’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

iMIS

Microsoft Great Plains

Job description

Position Overview:

The Staff Accountant for the American Culinary Federation (ACF) is responsible for managing the day-to-day accounting functions, providing both financial oversight and customer service across ACF departments. This individual ensures the accuracy of financial operations while supporting the broader goals of the organization.

Core Responsibilities:

1. Cash Management: Lead cash operations, including daily cash administration, account management, and handling banking relationships.
2. Month-End Close Assistance: Support the month-end closing process, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting.
3. Budgeting Support: Assist in the preparation, planning, and implementation of the annual budget, collaborating with relevant departments.
4. Audit Support: Facilitate annual internal and external audits, providing necessary documentation and analysis.
5. General Ledger & Financial Activities: Assist in preparing the general ledger, reconciling accounts, and supporting budget forecasting activities.
6. Discrepancy Monitoring: Track cash balances and report any discrepancies or unusual transactions.
7. Expense Tracking: Collaborate with finance staff to monitor actual vs. budgeted expenses for all departments.
8. Transaction Reconciliation: Process, reconcile, and post check batches in iMIS; manage credit card transactions and handle chargebacks.
9. Wire Transfers & ACH Payments: Manage both incoming and outgoing wire transfers, processing ACH payments for various ACF rebates.
10. Account Reconciliation: Reconcile balance sheet and income statement accounts, making necessary monthly adjustments.
11. Intercompany Accounts: Manage intercompany accounts and facilitate monthly fund transfers.
12. Journal Entries: Prepare and reconcile journal entries as part of the month-end close process.
13. Team Collaboration: Cross-train with other finance staff and provide coverage during team member absences.
14. Inventory Management: Assist with maintaining accurate inventory records.

General Duties:

1. Continually support the Senior Director of Finance Strategy in alignment with ACF’s mission, strategic goals, and programs.
2. Provide customer service to ACF members and vendors, assisting with billing, collections, and reporting tasks.
3. Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership.

Competency & Performance Standards:

The ideal candidate should excel in planning, organization, decision-making, and interpersonal communication. The ability to work independently, with strong judgment and problem-solving skills, is critical. Strong accounting knowledge and customer service expertise are necessary to succeed in this role. The candidate must be comfortable interfacing with ACF members, directors, and staff.

Administrative Requirements:

1. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
2. Experience with databases; familiarity with iMIS is a plus.
3. Willingness to learn new software as required.
4. Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, with the ability to manage competing priorities.

Education & Experience Requirements:

1. Education: Associate’s degree in accounting, Finance, or Business required; bachelor’s degree preferred.
2. Experience: 5–7 years of accounting experience required.
3. Software Proficiency:
   • Preferred: Microsoft Great Plains
   • Other: Microsoft Office, and iMIS
   • Experience in association or nonprofit sectors is a plus.

Special Skills & Knowledge:

1. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
2. Ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure and meet deadlines.
3. Customer service proficiency, with a collaborative approach.

Work Environment:

This is an in-office position, and the successful candidate will be based at our Jacksonville, FL office. Remote work or hybrid arrangements are not available for this role.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

ACF is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Commitment:

We strive to foster an environment that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. ACF is dedicated to ensuring that our workforce represents the diverse communities we serve. We encourage individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to apply and join us in building a more inclusive culinary community.

Disclaimer:

The above statements are not just job duties; they're your ticket to an exhilarating career at ACF/ACFEF, where additional responsibilities may come your way as we evolve and grow. Get ready for excitement, adventure, and making a real impact! Strap in, buckle up, and get ready to drive – this is not just a job; it's an ACF experience! Join us in creating culinary magic and memories that last a lifetime.

A valid Florida driver’s license and reliable transportation are required. Occasional travel may be necessary. The ACF is not just a workplace; it's a drug-free and smoke-free community of culinary enthusiasts.