Accountant III

BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina•Columbia, SC

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Summary Monitor and/or reconcile assigned general ledger accounts of a complex nature, process complex accounting activity, resolve variances, and/or document procedures to ensure accuracy of accounting information and/or financial reports, and/or compliance with established rules and/or regulations. Provide functional advice and/or training to less experienced accountants. Description Location: This position is full-time (40-hours/week) Monday-Friday in a typical office environment. This role is onsite at 51 Clemson Rd. Columbia, SC. Position Purpose: The Accountant III manages and reconciles complex general ledger accounts, processes advanced accounting transactions, and resolves variances to ensure accurate financial reporting and regulatory compliance. The role also documents procedures and provides guidance and training to less experienced accountants.

Requirements

Required Education: Bachelor's in a job related field with 24 semester hours in accounting. (Anyone hired prior to August 1, 2008 in an accounting position only requires 21 semester hours of accounting.)
Required Work Experience: 5 years of accounting experience.
Required Skills and Abilities: Comprehensive knowledge of fundamental accounting concepts, practices and procedures. Possesses excellent communication, organizational and analytical skills. Ability to work independently.
Required Software and Tools: Microsoft Office. Ability to use data retrieval applications.

Nice To Haves

Preferred Software and Other Tools: Able to write complex queries using database software. Highly skilled at excel.

Responsibilities

Complex Reconciliations & General Ledger Management Prepares daily and monthly complex account reconciliations, including W‑2–related balances, understanding payroll tax accounts, and other high‑impact financial areas. Works extensively with large data sets to validate, reconcile, and ensure accuracy across systems. Ensures all work complies with GAAP, federal acquisition regulations, cost accounting standards, and internal departmental policies. Maintains the general ledger by processing journal entries and generating financial reports.
Transaction Review, Variance Resolution & Close Support Reviews, analyzes, and verifies complex accounting and system transactions, including payroll‑related entries. Identifies, resolves, and documents variances using detailed data analysis. Provides accounting insight to operational areas to help diagnose and resolve issues. Supports month‑end, quarter‑end, and year‑end close activities in alignment with established timelines and procedures.
Reporting, GL Reconciliation & Adjustments Produces required reports and management analyses covering cost behavior, trends, variances, and other key indicators. Reconciles general ledger accounts—including those tied to payroll, benefits, and tax activities—and processes necessary adjusting entries. Reviews and supports reconciliation work performed in other accounting areas, including subsidiary ledgers.
Policy, Procedure & Documentation Improvement Maintains up‑to‑date work instructions for assigned activities. Reviews departmental policies, procedures, and forms to identify enhancement opportunities. Recommends updates and drafts revisions to improve accuracy, clarity, and operational effectiveness.
Special Projects, Audits & Team Support Assists the Supervisor with special projects and research assignments. Interfaces with internal and external audit teams to support audit activities. Provides guidance, training, and consultation to other accountants. Advises internal partners on complex accounting principles and reconciliation requirements.