Accountant Lead

Overview

This role supports General Ledger and Financial reporting functions, reporting directly to the Director of Corporate Accounting. Responsibilities include trial balance review, month-end close reporting, preparing and reviewing account reconciliations, and reviewing flux analyses. The Lead Accountant prepares schedules and accounting data for external auditors to support financial statement audits and drives process improvements related to payroll balance sheet accounts.

Responsibilities

• Own the full cycle of accounting and reporting activities.
• Facilitate month-end, quarter-end, and year-end closing processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Maintain month-end close task lists for payroll-related entries and reconciliations.
• Prepare and review journal entries and account reconciliations related to payroll accounting.
• Assist in leading and training the payroll accounting group; serve as a key point of contact for payroll accounting team members.
• Partner with business managers to ensure timely close and completion of account reconciliations.
• Analyze financial data to support management decisions and identify areas for improvement.
• Lead or support initiatives to improve financial visibility, internal controls, and reporting processes.
• Assist in implementing new accounting standards as required.
• Ensure compliance with Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), and internal accounting policies.
• Collaborate with Compliance teams to support DCAA/DCMA audits and accounting system audits.
• Act as primary liaison for external audit inquiries related to payroll general ledger.
• Plan and coordinate with internal and external auditors to maintain SOX compliance.
• Perform additional financial duties or special projects as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; equivalent combination of education and experience considered.
• Minimum six (6) years of progressive accounting experience including financial operations, cost management, general ledger month-end close, and financial statement audit experience.
• United States citizenship required.
• Ability to work extended hours as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPA certification obtained or in progress; active status preferred.
• Experience with account reconciliations in large multinational organizations is a plus.
• Experience in federal government contracting environments with multiple contract types (CPFF, T&M, FFP) desired.
• Expertise in FAR, CAS, and DCAA/DCMA audit protocols preferred.

Skills

• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to interpret and analyze complex financial data to identify trends and actionable insights.
• Technical knowledge of GAAP, government financial performance, operational accounting, and SOX compliance.
• Experience managing and supporting audits in regulatory-heavy environments.
• Advanced Excel and financial modeling skills.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written, with ability to collaborate effectively and present financial information clearly.
• Adaptable and resilient in dynamic environments with shifting priorities.
• Well-organized with keen attention to detail and ability to multitask.
• Demonstrates professional ethics, integrity, and ability to build trusted relationships.
• Culturally sensitive with ability to work effectively with diverse teams.

Software and Technology

• Experience with ERP financial systems such as IFS, Kyriba, SAP ECC, or S/4HANA.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 suite including SharePoint, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and advanced Excel.
• Familiarity with general office equipment including computers, printers, and copiers.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: USD $90,000 - $150,000, varying by geographic location and candidate qualifications.
• Benefits include healthcare coverage, life insurance, AD&D, disability benefits, retirement plan, wellness programs, paid time off including holidays, learning and development resources, and employee assistance programs.

Location

• United States (U.S. citizenship required)

Pay and benefits are subject to change at the discretion of the employer consistent with applicable plans.