Trade Accountant

Our client is a leading global trading and research firm dedicated to advancing world-class innovation. They bring together exceptional talent in mathematics, physics, and computer science to push scientific boundaries and apply cutting-edge research to financial markets. Their culture thrives on creativity, intellectual honesty, and fearless innovation, fostering collaboration and mutual respect to unlock individual potential. Beyond delivering superior risk-adjusted returns, they design and deploy transformative technologies, invest in start-ups across industries, and partner with top research organizations and universities to solve complex challenges.

The Opportunity

Our client is seeking a Senior Accounting Analyst to join their Trading Accounting team. This individual will manage accounting operations related to trading positions and profit & loss, working closely with clearing, data, and trading teams to track, reconcile, and analyze financial data. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to add value across the organization.

This role is based in Chicago, with an expectation of working onsite part of each week.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the monthly accounting close for one or more trading entities, including reconciliations, variance analysis, and posting journal entries to the general ledger.
• Record daily transactions such as fund transfers and trading activity.
• Support monthly profit & loss reporting for trading teams.
• Ensure trading-related balances are accurately reflected on the balance sheet.
• Review data for anomalies and provide clear documentation and explanations.
• Assist with external audits, tax filings, and compliance matters.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement automation solutions.
• Complete ad hoc projects assigned by managers and stakeholders.
• Perform other duties as needed.

What Our Client Is Looking For

• Minimum 4 years of experience in an accounting role.
• Bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field.
• CPA or international equivalent preferred.
• Experience in trading industry accounting/finance strongly preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel (including pivot tables and lookup functions).
• Experience with SQL and building/executing queries.
• Familiarity with NetSuite or similar accounting systems.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and solve problems.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and documentation abilities.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Adaptable, flexible, and comfortable with change.
• Professional demeanor and discretion with confidential information.
• Reliable and consistent availability.