Bookkeeper (in-office Grand Rapids, MI)

Stenger Legal Management Services, Inc. is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Bookkeeper to join our Finance team. We are a growing, fast-paced, technology-forward law firm that is continually looking for ways to improve and streamline our processes.

The Bookkeeper will support the day-to-day financial operations of the Firm, including payroll, reconciliations, transaction recording, accounts payable backup, and general accounting support. This role is a great fit for someone who enjoys working with numbers, is highly organized, and can balance accuracy with the demands of a busy and evolving work environment.

Previous law firm or collections experience is not required.

Key Responsibilities

• Process payroll accurately and on schedule, including reviewing employee hours, earnings, deductions, reimbursements, and payroll changes.
• Work with Human Resources to ensure new hires, terminations, compensation changes, and other payroll updates are processed accurately.
• Review payroll reports, record all payroll entries in the general ledger, maintain supporting records, and research and resolve discrepancies.
• Complete bank, credit card, and other account reconciliations and resolve outstanding items.
• Record and review financial transactions, including deposits, transfers, payments, fees, and other activity, ensuring transactions are accurately coded.
• Maintain general ledger accounts and prepare routine journal entries as needed.
• Assist with month-end and year-end accounting activities, including accruals, prepaid expenses, and other account reconciliations.
• Provide backup support for accounts payable, including invoice entry, coding, payments, and vendor inquiries.
• Assist with W-2s, 1099s, audits, and other financial reporting or year-end needs.
• Maintain accurate, organized, and confidential financial records and supporting documentation.
• Identify and research discrepancies and work proactively to resolve routine accounting or payroll issues.
• Cross-train on other Finance team responsibilities to provide coverage and support as needed.
• Look for opportunities to improve efficiencies and utilize technology to streamline accounting processes.
• Assist with additional accounting projects and responsibilities as assigned.
• Make appropriate income tax and property tax payments as directed.

Preferred Skills

• Five or more years of bookkeeping, accounting, payroll, or related experience preferred.
• Understanding of basic bookkeeping and accounting principles.
• Experience with payroll, bank reconciliations, and general ledger activity.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and recurring deadlines.
• Comfortable learning and working within accounting, payroll, HR, and other technology systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to research and resolve discrepancies.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when working with sensitive financial and employee information.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with others.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where processes, technology, and priorities may continue to evolve.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field preferred; relevant work experience may be considered in place of a degree.
• Previous bookkeeping, accounting, or payroll experience required.
• Payroll processing experience is a required.
• Strong mathematical, organizational, and communication skills.

Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and the ability to learn new software and technology.