Accountant

Accountant

Hybrid (based in CA, Newport Beach area)  | Full-Time

Company Overview

Swearingen Development Partners provides technical and business growth consulting services for the high-tech and industrial market sectors. We are a network of experienced professionals with backgrounds in Architecture, Engineering, Planning, and Construction. Our mission is to support the development of physical assets, vertical facilities, and infrastructure for our clients.

We partner with Owners, Consultants, Developers, Contractors, and Investors to optimize strategies, delivery approaches, and resources to help achieve business goals. Engagements range from short-term advisory services to longer-term project support, with travel and onsite presence as needed.

Position Summary

The Accounting & Payroll Manager is responsible for managing core accounting functions, including expense tracking, account reconciliation, state tax compliance, and payroll administration. This role plays a key part in maintaining the financial health and operational efficiency of the company.

This individual will work closely with leadership to ensure accurate financial reporting, compliance with regulatory requirements, and efficient execution of payroll and accounting processes. The position offers the opportunity to help build and refine internal accounting systems, processes, and controls as the firm continues to grow. This position is hybrid, requiring travel to South Orange County location up to 2 days a week.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day accounting operations, including processing and categorizing expenses and maintaining accurate financial records

• Perform monthly, quarterly, and year-end account reconciliations (bank accounts, credit cards, and general ledger accounts)

• Oversee and administer payroll processes, including ensuring timely and accurate employee payments, tax withholdings, and benefits deductions

• Prepare and file state and local tax filings, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations

• Maintain and improve accounting systems, workflows, and internal controls

• Monitor cash flow and assist with budgeting and financial planning activities

• Support the preparation of financial statements and internal reporting packages

• Coordinate with external accountants, auditors, and tax advisors as needed

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local financial regulations and reporting requirements

• Assist leadership with financial analysis, reporting, and ad hoc projects

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability of accounting and payroll processes

• Maintain organized documentation and audit-ready financial records

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field

• 4–7 years of relevant accounting and/or payroll experience.

• Start up mentality and experience running small to midsize company books.

• Strong experience with expense management, account reconciliations, and general ledger accounting

• Hands-on experience managing or processing payroll (multi-state experience preferred)

• Knowledge of state and local tax compliance and reporting requirements

• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, NetSuite, or similar) and Microsoft Excel

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in financial reporting

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work independently in a hybrid environment

• CPA or equivalent certification

•Required to pass a criminal, and financial background check

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in consulting, professional services, or project-based environments

• Familiarity with multi-entity or multi-state operations

• Experience implementing or improving accounting systems and processes

• Knowledge of payroll platforms (e.g., Gusto, ADP, Paychex, or similar)

• Experience supporting audits or working with external auditors/accountants

• Interest in helping build and scale internal finance and accounting functions

Work Environment

Swearingen Development Partners is a growing firm supporting multiple projects and clients across various sectors. Team members work collaboratively in a remote environment and are encouraged to take ownership of their responsibilities, contribute ideas, and grow professionally.

This role is hybrid, local to the South Orange County area and is expected to require regular travel up to 2 days in office. As the company grows, this position may expand in scope and responsibility, offering opportunities for increased leadership within the accounting and finance function.