Accountant Senior or Accountant Principal

American Electric Power•Columbus, OH

29d•$87,633 - $128,688•Onsite

About The Position

Take your accounting career to the next level in a supportive, fast-moving environment where your work matters. The Accountant Senior and Accountant Principal roles provide advanced accounting support for AEP companies, including designing and reviewing journal entry processes, developing analytical review procedures, and leading general ledger close processes and certain reporting activities for assigned areas of responsibility. Some of our Accountant Seniors and Accountant Principals also assist in our regulatory support process, including addressing complex implications of the regulatory environment. As you progress from Senior to Principal, you’ll take on increasingly complex assignments and broader leadership responsibilities across processes, reviews, and strategic initiatives. Both roles play a key part in maintaining accuracy, compliance, and financial integrity across the AEP system while supporting a culture of excellence and innovation. At AEP, we invest in your long-term success. As an Accountant Senior or Accountant Principal, you will lead complex accounting processes, mentor junior staff, and influence strategic decisions. These roles position you for progression into specialized leadership roles across the company. AEP supports your growth through leadership development, mentorship, and tuition assistance. If you’re looking to make an impact at a purpose‑driven company that values your development, we’d love to meet you.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Business with an Accounting concentration.
3 years of accounting experience required. (Accountant Senior)
4 years of accounting experience required. (Accountant Principal)
Strong understanding of GAAP and regulatory reporting requirements.
Proficiency in Microsoft products and familiarity with ERP systems.
Demonstrate the highest standards of ethical behavior.
Analytical mindset with attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to employ a logical approach to solve problems and achieve objectives.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt in a fast‑paced environment.
Ability to coach and guide others, including providing constructive feedback.
Continuous improvement mindset demonstrated through adaptability, flexibility, creativity, and initiative.

Nice To Haves

CPA or progress towards certification preferred.
PeopleSoft experience preferred.
Exposure to and familiarity with the utility industry preferred.
Public accounting experience and/or experience supporting external audits is preferred.
Strong business acumen with an eye for efficiency and process improvement.

Responsibilities

Perform general ledger accounting functions, including developing and reviewing journal entry processes, reviewing high‑risk account reconciliations, conducting balance sheet reviews, and performing detailed account activity analysis using data analytics tools.
Serve as a process leader by helping plan resources, coordinate activities, and meet deadlines within the accounting function for assigned areas of responsibility.
Ensure financial system applications operate accurately and timely to support monthly close and other critical reporting schedules.
Prepare, review, and present monthly, quarterly, and year‑to-date variance analyses.
Ensure compliance with Sarbanes‑Oxley requirements, internal controls, and established accounting policies.
Develop and perform analytic procedures to support financial integrity and provide business insights to AEP partners.
Develop and maintain strong working relationships within Accounting and with other AEP business partners.
Oversee the preparation, review, and accuracy of monthly reports, billings, and internal management reports for internal and external stakeholders.
Review and approve quarterly and annual Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) reporting and assist with quarterly and annual GAAP financial statements, footnotes, and MD&A.
Respond to and review data requests from internal and external auditors, regulators, and business partners.
Provide analysis and support for AEP regulatory filings, proceedings, and related reporting requirements.
Proactively assess, develop, and enhance accounting processes and procedures to drive continuous improvement.
Research, document, and assist in the implementation of new GAAP standards.
Lead or participate in special projects and cross-functional initiatives as assigned.
Monitor proceedings at regulatory commissions and relevant legislative developments in order to identify and understand potential regulatory accounting implications and disclosure requirements (both FERC and GAAP).
Support operating company recovery strategy and decision-making through accounting analysis and research
Assist in preparation of accounting testimony, accounting exhibits and schedules included in the filing requirements as defined by regulatory commissions
Research and analyze Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), including Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 980, Regulated Operations
Research and analyze Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) accounting rules, including the FERC Uniform System of Accounts
Prepare and/or review accounting memos, which document accounting conclusions, instructions, and disclosure considerations resulting from regulatory directives
Develop, create, modify, and manage regulatory accounting models for specific regulatory mechanisms