Staff Accountant (AP)

Job DetailsJob Location: Universe - Jurupa Valley, CA 91752Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $25.00 - $31.00 HourlyTravel Percentage: NoneJob Shift: DayJob Category: AccountingJob Summary: The Staff Accountant (Accounts Payable & Expense) is responsible for ensuring the accurate, timely, and compliant recognition of expenses across the organization in accordance with U.S. GAAP and internal accounting policies. Reporting to the Sr. Accounting Manager, this role plays a key analytical function in the month-end close and financial reporting processes by evaluating expense trends, investigating variances, and assessing the appropriateness of accruals, prepaid expenses, allocations, and fixed asset activity. This position requires strong analytical judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret financial data to support management decision-making, audit readiness, and continuous process improvement within a fast-paced fulfillment and logistics environment.   Job Expectations: Accounts Payable & Expense Accounting · Analyze vendor invoices, contracts, and supporting documentation to determine proper expense classification, timing, and recognition in accordance with U.S. GAAP. · Evaluate expense cut-off and completeness during month-end and year-end close by reviewing open invoices, accrued liabilities, and operational data. · Prepare, post, and review journal entries related to expense accruals, prepaid expenses, amortization, deferrals, and reclassifications. · Perform detailed reconciliations of expense-related balance sheet accounts, including accrued expenses, prepaid expenses, and accounts payable clearing accounts; investigate and resolve discrepancies. · Review and reconcile invoice discrepancies, pricing issues, and quantity variances with vendors and internal stakeholders. · Monitor vendor payment terms, discounts, and due dates; schedule and prepare payments to ensure timely and accurate vendor settlement. Analysis, Controls & Reporting · Partner with department leaders to assess expense allocations, cost drivers, and proper coding; challenge assumptions and recommend improvements when necessary. · Analyze expense trends by department, cost center, and vendor; provide explanations for material variances versus prior periods, budgets, or forecasts. · Maintain and enhance expense recognition processes, internal controls, and documentation to support audit readiness and compliance. · Support internal and external audits by preparing schedules, providing supporting documentation, and responding to audit inquiries. Vendor Management & General Accounting · Monitor vendor and customer accounts to ensure subsidiary ledgers are reconciled to the general ledger in accordance with accounting policies. · Request, review, and reconcile vendor and customer statements to identify and resolve discrepancies. · Maintain accurate vendor and customer master data, including required documentation (e.g., W-9s, change-of-address forms, certificates of insurance). · Set up new vendors and customers in compliance with accounting department policies and procedures. · Maintain fixed asset records, including additions, disposals, and depreciation schedules. · Perform physical audits of inventory and fixed assets as assigned. · Ensure all accounting source documents are entered accurately and timely to meet close and reporting deadlines. · Adhere to all internal controls, accounting policies, and confidentiality requirements. · Assist with special projects and other accounting tasks as assigned by management. The responsibilities listed above are not intended to be all-inclusive. Additional duties may be assigned as business needs evolve. QualificationsKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities: · Strong knowledge of U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), including the ability to research and apply guidance. · Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. · Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy. · Solid mathematical aptitude. · Process improvement mindset with the ability to identify efficiencies and control enhancements. · Effective time management and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing deadlines. · Positive, collaborative attitude and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. · Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present financial information clearly and concisely. · Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact professionally with employees at all levels. · Ability to work extended hours as required during peak periods or month-end close. · Ability to travel to local company locations as needed Systems & Technical Skills · Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, with advanced Excel skills preferred. · Strong general computer proficiency. · Experience with ERP systems required; Acumatica and Softeon experience is a plus. Experience Requirements: Generally, requires a minimum of five (5) years of progressive accounting experience. Prior experience in manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, or fulfillment environment strongly preferred. Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related field preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience. Judgment/Reasoning Ability: Able to identify, troubleshoot and resolve problems quickly using sound judgment, poise, and diplomacy. Ability to use judgment and reasoning skills, and determine when to escalate issues, as required, in a timely manner. Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is regularly required to talk and hear. The Team Member is frequently required to sit, walk, climb stairs, use hands and fingers, bend, stoop and reach with hands and arms. Reaching above shoulder heights, below the waist or lifting as required to file documents or store materials throughout the workday. The Team Member may occasionally lift or move office products and supplies up to 25 pounds. Proper lifting techniques required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work Environment: The noise in the work environment is usually moderate. Other factors are: ● Hectic, fast-paced with multi-level distractions ● Professional, yet casual work environment ● Office / Warehouse environment