Accounting Manager

We are looking for an Accounting Manager to join a manufacturing organization in Chicago, Illinois in a contract-to-permanent capacity. This position is well suited for an accounting specialist who is prepared to step into leadership, oversee a small team, and serve as a reliable resource for day-to-day accounting guidance. The ideal candidate brings strong technical accounting knowledge, sound judgment, and the ability to support accurate, timely financial operations while helping develop the work of others.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and support a team of four accounting team members, offering direction, feedback, and coaching to strengthen daily performance.
• Oversee month-end close activities to ensure deadlines are met and financial records are completed accurately.
• Review journal entries, reconciliations, and other accounting work prepared by staff to maintain quality and consistency.
• Manage general ledger activity and resolve discrepancies by investigating issues and recommending corrective action.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to support audit preparation and provide documentation required for financial statement reviews.
• Monitor account balances and perform detailed reconciliation oversight to confirm the integrity of financial data.
• Identify opportunities to improve accounting workflows and implement practical process enhancements when needed.
• At least 2 years of accounting experience, including hands-on responsibility for core accounting functions.
• Solid understanding of month-end close procedures, general ledger management, and journal entry review.
• Experience supporting account reconciliations and maintaining accurate financial records.
• Familiarity with financial statement audit preparation and responding to audit-related requests.
• Demonstrated ability to guide the work of others or readiness to step into a first-time people management role.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify issues, evaluate details, and provide clear accounting guidance.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.