Senior Accountant / Accounting Manager

We are seeking a hands-on Senior Accountant / Accounting Manager to join our growing team. This role combines day-to-day accounting leadership with the opportunity to help implement new ERP and payroll systems, improve processes, and support financial strategy.

This role is available for either of our offices:
In Person at Palatine, IL or St Louis, MO with some Hybrid options considered

Position Summary

The Senior Accountant / Accounting Manager is a key member of the Finance team responsible for overseeing core accounting operations, payroll, financial reporting, compliance, and system implementations.

This individual will play a critical role in ensuring accurate financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency while supporting growth initiatives, including new ERP implementations and reporting enhancements.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting & Financial Reporting

• Manage general accounting functions including GL, AR, AP, and account reconciliations
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports
• Lead consolidation processes across entities and divisions
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
• Assist in the preparation of Board of Directors and management reporting packages
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, including lease accounting under ASC 842

Payroll, Benefits & Compliance

• Monitor end-to-end payroll processing (administrative and field/fabrication) ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Maintain payroll records with strict confidentiality
• Ensure compliance with multi-state payroll tax regulations and filings (federal, state, local)
• Administer and account for employee benefits including 401(k), health insurance, garnishments, and deductions
• Maintain and support compliance with HR regulations, company policy, and reporting requirements
• Assist with interpretation and administration of Union Collective Bargaining Agreements

Construction Accounting & Project Support

• Manage construction accounting functions including:
• Job costing and cost tracking
• Work-in-Progress (WIP) reporting
• Progress billings (AIA and non-AIA) with supporting documentation such as lien waivers, affidavits, and labor reports
• Maintain job matrix by reviewing contracts to determine billing terms, reporting requirements, and payment structures
• Track and allocate inventory costs and project expenses

Cash Management & Accounts Receivable

• Manage cash flow, bank reconciliations, and cash forecasting
• Monitor and maintain AR aging schedules; lead collection efforts
• Confirm payments and manage external reporting systems (e.g., compliance or contractor systems)
• Prepare credit applications and support credit management activities

Tax & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure accurate and timely filing of:
• Payroll taxes (multi-state)
• Sales and use tax
• Tangible property / business taxes
• Other state and federal filings
• Support audits (financial, tax, workers’ compensation, and external audits)
• Perform weekly workers’ compensation calculations and required submissions

ERP Systems & Process Improvement

• Serve as a key resource in ERP implementation and optimization for accounting and forecasting systems
• Assist with selection and implementation of payroll/timekeeping/union reporting systems
• Design and develop financial and operational reports within ERP systems
• Identify process inefficiencies and implement improvements to enhance accuracy and scalability

Team Collaboration & Leadership

• Collaborate closely with Finance, HR, Operations, and Project teams
• Act as a subject matter expert across accounting, payroll, and compliance functions
• Support training of internal stakeholders on financial systems and processes
• Contribute to a team-oriented environment while also working independently

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA preferred)
• 7 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in construction or project-based environments
• Strong knowledge of:
• GAAP and financial reporting
• Construction accounting (WIP, job costing)
• Payroll processing and multi-state tax compliance
• Experience with audits, budgeting, and financial analysis
• Proficiency with ERP/accounting systems (e.g., Sage, or similar platforms)
• Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, reporting, analysis)
• Experience working with union environments and CBAs preferred

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Self-starter with a hands-on approach
• Ability to meet tight deadlines and manage competing priorities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• High level of integrity and ability to handle confidential information

Work Environment & Expectations

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Flexibility to meet payroll, reporting, and project deadlines
• Willingness to support system implementations and process changes
• Comfortable operating in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person