Staff Accountant

Description

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) is seeking a detail-oriented Staff Accountant to support general ledger accounting, financial reporting, account reconciliations, and internal controls. Reporting to the Manager, Finance Operations & AP/AR, this position prepares journal entries, independently reconciles assigned accounts, supports month-end and year-end close processes, and helps maintain accurate financial records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). The ideal candidate combines strong accounting fundamentals with analytical judgment, organizational skills, and a collaborative approach to resolving financial discrepancies and improving processes. This is a full-time hybrid position requiring two days per week in the Rolling Meadows, IL office. The salary range for this full-time position is $60,000–$70,000. Actual compensation will be based on qualifications, experience, and other job-related factors. AANS offers a comprehensive benefits package; details will be provided during the hiring process.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and record journal entries in accordance with GAAP and organizational policies.
• Independently reconcile assigned general ledger and balance sheet accounts; research discrepancies and recommend appropriate adjustments.
• Review financial transactions for accuracy, completeness, supporting documentation, and proper accounting classification.
• Maintain the chart of accounts and support consistent accounting classifications across programs and departments.
• Prepare accruals, adjusting entries, and supporting schedules for monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close.
• Analyze account activity, identify unusual items, and communicate findings to Finance leadership.
• Support financial statement preparation and management reporting with timely, accurate schedules.
• Prepare audit workpapers, reconciliations, and documentation for annual financial audits.
• Follow established approval procedures and internal controls; recommend improvements to accounting processes and documentation.
• Compile and reconcile NeurosurgeryPAC transaction data to support timely Federal Election Commission (FEC) filings under appropriate review.
• Provide backup support for AP/AR transactions, corporate credit cards, and employee expense reimbursements, including classification and policy compliance.
• Assist with credit card processing fee allocations and related reconciliations.
• Participate in financial system maintenance, upgrades, testing, and workflow improvements.
• Collaborate with departments to resolve accounting inquiries and perform related special projects as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a closely related field.
• Two or more years of relevant accounting experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of GAAP, journal entries, general ledger accounting, and account reconciliations.
• Experience supporting financial close processes and preparing accounting schedules.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with accounting or ERP systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and meet competing deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in nonprofit, association, or membership-based organization accounting.
• Familiarity with restricted and unrestricted funds and nonprofit financial reporting.
• Experience preparing audit schedules and supporting internal control improvements.
• Experience with expense management platforms and accounting system improvements.

Core Competencies

• Accurate and accountable: Maintains complete records and meets reporting deadlines.
• Analytical: Investigates discrepancies and recommends appropriate accounting solutions.
• Collaborative: Communicates effectively with Finance leadership and cross-functional colleagues.
• Process-oriented: Identifies opportunities to improve controls and efficiency.