What are the responsibilities and job description for the Accountant position at PHELPS UNIFORM SPECIALISTS?
JOB TITLE: Accountant
LOCATION: Muscatine, IA
OBJECTIVE: The Accountant plays a hands-on role in supporting the day-to-day accounting operations of the company. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working in the details, values accuracy, and wants to continue building a strong accounting foundation.
The Accountant will work closely with our external accounting provider to learn our systems, processes, and reporting requirements, while serving as an internal resource for accounting support. A solid understanding of accounting principles, along with a collaborative and problem-solving mindset, is key to success in this role.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Prepare and post journal entries, including accruals and adjustments
- Reconcile bank and general ledger accounts (cash, inventory, prepaid expenses, etc.)
- Enter, review, and maintain financial data, including manual data entry across accounting systems
- Compile, clean, and organize financial data from multiple systems into a single general ledger or report
- Maintain and reconcile fixed asset schedules
- Support month-end and year-end close processes, including preparation of financial statements
- Analyze variances and provide explanations for budget-to-actual differences.
- Ensure compliance with GAAP and company accounting policies
- Prepare ad hoc reports and support special projects as needed
Audit & Compliance Responsibilities
- Own the preparation and coordination of PBC (Prepared by Client) lists for audits, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and timely delivery of all requested materials
- Assist with internal and external audits, including gathering, validating, and reconciling supporting documentation
- Partner with internal teams and external accounting providers to respond to audit requests and resolve inquiries efficiently
- Ensure documentation and processes are audit-ready and compliant with GAAP and company policies
AP/AR & Cross-Functional Support
- Assist with Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable processes as needed
- Support accuracy and documentation related to AP/AR activities
- Collaborate with team members to help ensure timely and accurate processing
- Work closely with our external accounting provider to understand company-specific processes
- Partner with operations and leadership teams to ensure accurate cost allocation and inventory tracking
Qualifications:
QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong understanding of general accounting principles (GAAP)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Sage 100 ERP (formerly MAS90) specifically in Excel
- Highly organized and detail-oriented
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
- Comfortable meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Clear and professional communicator who works well across departments
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
- Approximately 3 years of accounting experience (preferably in manufacturing, distribution, or service industries)
PREFERRED BUT NOT REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE
- Inventory accounting experience
- Familiarity with payroll or tax compliance