Senior Accountant (Contractor)

Overview

This temporary Senior Accountant 1 position is responsible for ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and appropriateness of general ledger transactions in accordance with US GAAP. The role requires interpreting contractual terms to ensure all costs related to contractual commitments are recorded in the correct accounting period. The position involves participation in month-end closing, financial reporting, and various administrative accounting functions, with a focus on challenging areas such as R&D accruals. A strong SOX-compliant mindset, analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to lead improvements are essential.

Responsibilities

• Support the month-end close process, including data entry, reconciliation of sub-ledgers to the general ledger, and maintenance of balance sheet account reconciliations
• Prepare general & administrative (G&A) and select research & development (R&D) accruals, maintain trackers, coordinate with functional leaders, and analyze accruals for accuracy and completeness
• Assist with operationalizing contract terms and ensure appropriate accounting treatment per SEC and Technical Accounting guidance
• Manage prepaid reconciliations, including subscriptions, insurance, and other prepaid accounts
• Oversee fixed asset accounting including additions, disposals, depreciation, and conduct the annual fixed asset inventory
• Prepare and record payroll-related journal entries and collaborate closely with the Payroll team to ensure accuracy and timeliness
• Utilize and efficiently operate accounting modules and related financial systems
• Prepare audit schedules and analyses, and respond to internal and external auditor inquiries
• Ensure compliance with established policies, procedures, and internal controls to maintain Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance
• Participate in process improvements, system enhancements, and documentation efforts to increase efficiency and effectiveness
• Perform special projects, financial analyses, and other duties as assigned

Requirements

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance, or equivalent experience
• Minimum 5 years of accounts payable/accounting experience, preferably in the life sciences sector
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Word
• Experience with QuickBooks and/or NetSuite preferred

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to collaborate effectively across Finance, Payroll, Legal, and operational teams
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Ability to multi-task, work under pressure, maintain a positive attitude, and meet deadlines
• Ability to gather, analyze, and interpret information for completeness and accuracy

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in Coupa and Floqast
• Experience working in a public company, pre-IPO, or high-growth environment

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: Not specified
• Additional compensation includes discretionary annual target bonus, stock options, employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), and 401(k) match
• Health insurance plans covering medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance for employees and their families
• Paid time off: 20 days of PTO, 10 paid holidays, and a winter company shutdown

Location

Not specified