Accounting Specialist

Fairlawn•Champaign, IL

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

Are you highly motivated with an ownership mindset and a passion for all things numbers? If so, our Accounting Specialist role may be perfect for you! Based in Champaign, Illinois, this Fairlawn team member will be responsible for supporting the accounting functions of the company. The Accounting Specialist will report to the Director of Accounting. The ideal candidate will embody Fairlawn’s core values: Be Kind, Own It, Be Flexible, and Always Improve. Fairlawn is a vertically integrated firm specializing in real estate investment, management, and development. Based in Chicago and Champaign, Illinois, we have a more than 10-year track record in value-add projects, development, student housing, and build-to-rent communities. With a portfolio of approximately 5,700 units and $850 million in assets under management, Fairlawn has established a strong presence across Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. We are actively expanding into additional Midwest markets.

Requirements

Experience working in AppFolio for property management is a plus
Proficiency with relevant technology (e.g. Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) and ability to adapt to changing technology
Can work overtime as needed during high demand times and capacity shortages
Demonstrate superior attention to detail, high energy and a positive attitude
Have an ability to give and receive real-time feedback with a positive mindset
Ability to work both independently and to work closely with alongside your other team members
Availability to work 4 days in the office with optional 1 day remote each week
Have excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
Ethical and professional conduct and integrity beyond reproach
Embody our core values: Be Kind, Be Flexible, Own It and Always Improve
Two years of accounting experience in a fast-paced office environment is desired
Valid driver’s license and dependable transportation
Availability to work longer hours and weekends during department and company peak seasons
Must be able to complete the physical functions of the position, not limited to the ability to sit for long periods of time at a computer and extensive keyboarding.

Nice To Haves

Five years of accounting experience in a fast-paced office environment is desired
Experience in Real Estate accounting is a plus
A college degree in Accounting or a relevant field, or relevant coursework is a plus

Responsibilities

Exemplify the core values of Be Kind, Be Flexible, Own It, and Always Improve
Code, enter, process/post, and review invoices in a timely manner
Verify approval on invoices and check requests
Research vendor statements, resolve vendor and/or invoice issues, and respond to inquiries from internal and external vendors
Participate in month-end closing procedures such as bank and loan reconciliations and income statement review
Assist with work order review, billing, and payment
Post and scan corporate deposits
Maintain corporate credit card platform and process monthly credit card billings
Upload, code, and pay utility bills
Participate in lender reserve draw package assembly
Vendor relations including new vendor setup, resolving issues, and ensuring vendor compliance with certificate of insurance requirements
Review and ensure compliance with internal controls (proper approvals, documentation, account coding, payment terms, etc.)
Meet departmental expectations/deadlines and perform other duties and special projects as assigned
Learn and ensure compliance with all Fair Housing Laws including local, state, and federal housing regulations (We provide training)
Pivot, roll up your sleeves and jump in where needed!

Benefits

Competitive Pay. We are ready to invest in you!
Additional monthly or quarterly incentive pay for meeting goals and supporting property performance
Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance to access care for positive health outcomes and your overall wellbeing
Employee sponsored benefits including Short Term Disability, Life Insurance, Critical Illness, Accident, Flexible Spending, and H.S.A. Accounts to avoid costly medical expenses due to gaps and ensure that all your medical needs are met
401(k) Retirement Plan with Match to invest in your future wealth and retirement
Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holiday Pay to help you reset and come back rejuvenated and refreshed
Company events to promote team cohesion
Wellness Days to focus on being your best self. We want you to have time to disconnect and recharge in a way that works for you
The opportunity to work for a growing organization where you are valued and can have a direct impact
Quarterly off-site meetings with your manager to celebrate wins, issue solve and ensure you are set up for success. Plus, the process is rewarding, and the results are great for your career