GL Accountant

Job Summary The General Ledger (GL) Accountant works under the direction of a General Ledger Accounting Supervisor or Manager to perform general accounting work for an assigned portfolio of properties. During the monthly closeout process, the role prepares journal entries to post to the general ledger, financial statements and other reports for each property. The GL Accountant ensures completeness and accuracy of financial statements and related accounting activities. The successful candidate will embody and work to reinforce MAA’s Core Values. Those values include: Appreciating the uniqueness of each individual Communicating openly and with integrity Embracing opportunities Doing the right thing at the right time for the right reasons Duties and Responsibilities Applies knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) to the preparation of journal entries for posting to the general ledger, financial statements, reconciliations, and variance analysis during monthly closeout for each property within assigned portfolio. Reviews financial statements for accuracy and prepares all necessary accruals, amortizations and reclassifications to complete the final monthly close package to ensure compliance with GAAP standards. Analyzes balance sheet accounts to ensure accuracy; prepares balance sheet reconciliations with detailed explanations of account balances. Analyzes monthly utility expenses for completeness by making all necessary accruals/adjustments and by providing detailed variance explanations. Participates in peer review process of work products for quality assurance, including close packages, to ensure completion, accuracy, and timely release to internal and external customers. Reviews and responds to requests from Operations regarding various property accounting issues and implements corrective actions to resolve. Participates in general ledger project teams with internal peers and/or external resources. Assists with completing SOX testing as required by the Internal Audit Department. Performs other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the business. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required. Two years of professional accounting, finance or related experience required. Preferred Qualifications Real estate or property accounting experience preferred Experience with Yardi investment accounting system strongly preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of GAAP, financial terms, and principles, including cash and accrual accounting methods Knowledge and skill to comprehend, analyze and interpret financial statements Attention to detail and accuracy with quantitative data and financial calculations Customer service orientation to provide effective and efficient support to internal clients Skill and ability to communicate verbally clearly and concisely and in writing Skill in applying critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving methods Knowledge and skills to organize, prioritize, and meet deadlines Time management skills to meet deadlines on time-sensitive projects and demonstrate regular attendance and punctuality Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint) Knowledge and ability to operate accounting software applications (e.g., Yardi) Ability to maintain confidentiality and maintain appropriate discretion Physical and Environmental Requirements The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. This position requires the ability to occasionally lift office products and supplies, up to 20 pounds. This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Disclaimer Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. MAA is a real estate investment trust (REIT) company focused on providing a high-quality apartment living experience to residents across the Southeast, Southwest and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. As an active buyer and developer of apartment communities, MAA is currently the largest owner-operator of apartment homes in the country and is an S&P 500 company listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Currently, MAA owns and operates over 100,000 apartment homes across 17 states and the District of Columbia. We have successfully navigated numerous business cycles, captured significant growth and built an efficient, technology-driven operating platform with an investment portfolio that is uniquely balanced and diversified across markets noted for strong population growth and robust housing-demand dynamics. Our mission at MAA is to deliver superior service and value for our residents, employees and shareholders. We refer to this as creating "A Brighter View" and we are doing it every day. As an employer, we strive to recruit, develop and retain a talented and diverse workforce that mirrors the diversity of our residents and the communities where we do business. Our corporate charity, The Open Arms Foundation, is the heart of our company. Its mission is to provide a home away from home for those who must travel to receive medical treatment. Would you like to learn more about what a day at an MAA Community looks like? Click below to view a quick video from our associates. Property Manager for an MAA Community leads all aspects of community life and above all – quality customer service. The Maintenance Supervisor leads and coordinates the maintenance team through repairs and maintenance of property facilities and apartments. Assistant Property Managers support the operations and financial performance of the community, handle the collections process, and assist with leasing. In other words, they wear several hats! An Apartment Maintenance Technician performs maintenance and repairs to ensure apartments and facilities are in top shape. A special role for an MAA community, a Leasing Consultant supports leasing operations, interactions and communication with residents, and assists with community events and marketing activities.