Staff Accountant- ManufacturingPrincipal Manufacturing a leader in fineblanking, conventional stamping and plastic injection molding is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Staff Accountant to support the day-to-day accounting operations of the company. This position is responsible for maintaining the general ledger, assisting with month-end and year-end close processes, supporting payroll activities, preparing financial reports, and assisting with annual audits and physical inventory activities. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of GAAP, excellent analytical skills, and experience working in a manufacturing environment.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesGeneral Ledger AccountingPrepare and post journal entries.Reconcile general ledger accounts and investigate discrepancies.Maintain accuracy and integrity of accounting records.Assist with fixed asset accounting and depreciation schedules.Support accounts payable and accounts receivable activities as needed.Month-End and Year-End CloseAssist in monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close activities.Prepare account reconciliations and supporting schedules.Analyze variances and provide explanations for unusual account activity.Support preparation of financial statements and management reports.Ensure compliance with accounting policies and procedures.Payroll SupportAssist with processing weekly and bi-weekly payroll.Review payroll reports for accuracy and completeness.Reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts.Maintain payroll records and assist with payroll audits and reporting requirements.Audit and ComplianceSupport external auditors during annual financial audits.Prepare schedules, reports, and documentation requested by auditors.Assist with internal control compliance and documentation.Ensure adherence to GAAP and company accounting policies.Inventory and Manufacturing SupportAssist with physical inventory counts and cycle count programs.Reconcile inventory records to the general ledger.Analyze inventory variances and investigate discrepancies.Support cost accounting and inventory valuation activities.Work closely with operations and production teams to ensure inventory accuracy.Additional ResponsibilitiesMaintain organized accounting records and supporting documentation.Assist with budgeting and forecasting activities.Support special projects and process improvement initiatives.Perform other accounting and administrative duties as assigned.QualificationsEducationBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.CPA designation or CPA candidate preferred.Experience3-5 years of accounting experience preferred.Manufacturing accounting experience strongly preferred.Experience with payroll processing and inventory accounting preferred.Experience supporting external audits preferred.Knowledge & SkillsStrong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).Proficient in Microsoft Excel, including PivotTables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and financial analysis functions.Proficient with Microsoft Outlook, Word, and accounting/ERP systems.Experience with manufacturing ERP systems preferred.Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.Ability to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines.Strong verbal and written communication skills.Physical Requirements Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods.Ability to periodically participate in physical inventory counts, including walking through manufacturing and warehouse areas.We offer paid holidays, PTO, 401K matching and medical benefits.