FEP Accountant

Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association•Chicago, IL

19h•Hybrid

About The Position

This role is primarily responsible for ensuring the accuracy of financial records, managing month-end processes, handling transactional tasks such as journal entries and payment processing, and preparing reports in compliance with accounting standards. This role involves conducting reconciliations, analyzing variances, implementing process improvements, and collaborating with other departments. Additionally, this role will support audits and perform ad hoc financial analysis to aid decision-making and business initiatives.

Requirements

BS or equivalent experience
4+ Years accounting experience, including all aspects of the monthly close process, transaction processing, cash management, and financial record-keeping
Solid understanding of accounting principles, including GAAP.
Ability to manage general ledger accounts, ensuring accurate recording of financial transactions.
Effective analytical skills to interpret financial data, identify trends, and make informed decisions.
High attention to detail.
Understanding of internal controls to safeguard financial assets, prevent fraud, and ensure compliance.
Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple priorities/projects under tight timeframes with a sense of urgency.
Effective communication skills to clearly convey complex accounting issues to management, auditors, and other staff.
Ability to understand complex accounting transactions and apply US GAAP and non-GAAP standards.
Demonstrates AI literacy and an understanding of generative AI tools, including appropriate business applications and limitations.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Minimum four years of accounting experience, including all aspects of the monthly close process, transaction processing, cash management, and financial record-keeping
Experience with accounting software (PeopleSoft and Workday preferred).

Nice To Haves

MS or equivalent experience

Responsibilities

Lead or assist in the month-end close process, including preparing journal entries, reconciling accounts, and analyzing variances.
Prepare financial statements and reports in accordance with accounting principles and regulatory requirements.
Perform regular reconciliations of balance sheet accounts to ensure accuracy and completeness of financial data.
Analyze variances between actual and budgeted/forecasted figures, investigating discrepancies and providing explanations as needed.
Assist in external and internal audits by providing necessary documentation, explanations, and support to auditors.
Implement and maintain internal control procedures to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
Identify opportunities for process improvements in accounting procedures and systems to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Collaborate with other departments, such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, and finance, to ensure accurate and timely financial information exchange.
Perform ad hoc financial analysis and projects as requested by management to support decision-making and business initiatives.