Associate Accountant

Guardian Recruiting (Pty) Ltd; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Job summary

Guardian Recruiting (Pty) Ltd is seeking an Associate Accountant in Stellenbosch, South Africa, for a hybrid role within a growing international finance team.

You will support month-end close, maintain accurate ledgers, perform reconciliations, and assist with VAT and statutory submissions while upholding SAICA/SAIPA/CIMA development prospects.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance or related field.
• 1–3 years accounting experience.
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Assist with general ledger journals and month‑end/year‑end close processes
• Perform bank, debtor and creditor reconciliations
• Process accounts payable, accounts receivable, supplier invoices, expense claims and payment runs
• Assist with VAT calculations and statutory submissions, including PAYE, UIF and SDL where applicable
• Maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation
• Support budgeting, variance analysis and financial reporting
• Assist with internal and external audit preparations
• Ensure compliance with company policies, internal controls and relevant legislation
• Respond to finance‑related queries from internal stakeholders

Skills

Excel proficiency

Attention to detail

Numerical ability

Teamwork

Education

Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance or related field

Tools

Accounting software/ERP systems

Job description

Associate Accountant

Location: Stellenbosch, South Africa (Hybrid)

Ranked among the Top 20 Forbes Best-In-State Companies (2026), our client is a leading US-based agriculture and technology company specialising in variety development, intellectual property, licensing, and agricultural innovation. With a global footprint, the company fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous growth.

This is an excellent opportunity for an early‑career finance professional to broaden their accounting experience within a dynamic international organisation.

The Role

Reporting to the South Africa Accounting Manager, the Associate Accountant will support the finance function by maintaining accurate financial records, assisting with month‑end and statutory reporting, and ensuring compliance with South African accounting standards and legislation.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with general ledger journals and month‑end/year‑end close processes
• Perform bank, debtor and creditor reconciliations
• Process accounts payable, accounts receivable, supplier invoices, expense claims and payment runs
• Assist with VAT calculations and statutory submissions, including PAYE, UIF and SDL where applicable
• Maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation
• Support budgeting, variance analysis and financial reporting
• Assist with internal and external audit preparations
• Ensure compliance with company policies, internal controls and relevant legislation
• Respond to finance‑related queries from internal stakeholders

Requirements

Essential

• Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field
• 1‑3 years' accounting experience
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy

Advantageous

• Exposure to VAT, PAYE, UIF and SDL
• Experience using accounting software/ERP systems
• Studying towards or intending to pursue a SAICA, SAIPA or CIMA qualification

Skills & Competencies

• Strong numerical and analytical ability
• Highly organised with excellent time management skills
• Able to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Able to meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment
• High levels of integrity and confidentiality