What are the responsibilities and job description for the Bookkeeper position at Upward On?
About the Opportunity
This is an opportunity for a Bookkeeper to join a nationally active title insurance and 1031 exchange platform, supporting a high-volume, multi-state transaction environment. This role sits at the center of financial operations, with a strong focus on escrow accounting, transaction accuracy, and compliance. It offers meaningful exposure to complex real estate transactions and the ability to play a critical role in ensuring smooth, compliant closings across the business.
About the Company
Our client is a North New Jersey-based firm with a national presence, specializing in title insurance and 1031 exchange services. The platform supports a high volume of residential and commercial transactions, with a reputation for precision, compliance, and operational excellence across multiple states.
Role & Responsibilities
Escrow & Trust Accounting
- Maintain and reconcile escrow and trust accounts
- Process, record, and disburse escrow funds for real estate closings
- Investigate and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner
- Perform monthly three-way reconciliations (bank statement, escrow ledger, trial balance)
1031 Exchange Accounting
- Record and track forward, reverse, and improvement exchange transactions
- Monitor exchange timelines and flag at-risk transactions
- Prepare exchange proceeds reports and coordinate with Qualified Intermediary (QI) team
- Maintain proper documentation and audit trails in accordance with IRS requirements
General Bookkeeping & Accounts Management
- Manage accounts payable and receivable, including premium remittances
- Record daily financial transactions in QuickBooks
- Reconcile bank, credit card, and general ledger accounts
- Process payroll entries
- Manage vendor relationships and ensure timely payments
- Support month-end and year-end close processes
Reporting & Compliance
- Generate financial reports including P&L, balance sheets, and transaction summaries
- Assist with premium tax filings and multi-state remittance schedules
- Support audits and regulatory reviews
- Maintain records in accordance with title insurance regulations
- Prepare 1099s and required tax documentation
Qualifications
- 3–5 years of bookkeeping experience within title insurance, real estate settlement, or closing services
- Experience processing and reconciling HUD-1 and/or ALTA Settlement Statements (CD/TRID)
- Strong understanding of the full real estate settlement lifecycle
- Solid knowledge of escrow accounting and trust account reconciliation
- Familiarity with 1031 exchange rules and Qualified Intermediary processes
- Proficiency with accounting software (QuickBooks preferred)
- Strong Excel skills
- Highly detail-oriented with a high degree of accuracy and integrity
- Ability to manage a high volume of transactions in a deadline-driven environment
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
Compensation, Hours, Location
- Salary: commensurate with experience, pls send your salary reqs
- Full-time | Monday – Friday
- Location: North New Jersey (Englewood Cliffs)
- Benefits include health coverage, paid time off, and employee savings plan
- Support for continuing education and industry certifications