Associate Accountant

Les Schwab•Bend, OR

About The Position

POSITION SUMMARY: The Vendor Setup Associate Accountant plays a vital role in supporting the company’s procure-to-pay process by ensuring that vendor information is accurately captured, maintained, and compliant with internal policies and regulatory requirements. This role is responsible for processing vendor onboarding requests, validating tax identification and banking information, and maintaining the integrity of the vendor master database. The Associate Accountant is expected to have a working knowledge of accounting systems, tax documentation (W-9s, TIN validation), and compliance processes related to vendor data. This role requires a strong attention to detail, proficiency with accounting software and ERP systems, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. The ideal candidate demonstrates initiative, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a foundational understanding of GAAP and internal control principles. The individual must be organized, efficient, and able to follow standardized procedures with consistency.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred
2+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in a multi-entity or retail environment
Demonstrated experience with general ledger and financial close processes
Proficiency in Excel (advanced Excel, pivot tables, VLOOKUP
Familiarity with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office is preferred
Familiarity with mid to enterprise level ERP systems (Oracle NetSuite, SAP)
Accurate 10-key proficiency (still applicable in some high-volume environments)
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
Ability to work independently with limited supervision
High attention to detail and strong numerical accuracy
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skill
Intermediate journal entry and intercompany transaction experience
Ability to support system testing, UAT, and data validation during software implementations and upgrades
Process new vendor setup requests and ensure all required documentation (e.g., W-9s, bank details) is accurate and complete
Maintain vendor records in ERP or procurement systems
Perform TIN matching and verify tax forms (e.g., W-9, W-8BEN)
Validate and enter banking information securely for ACH payments
Collaborate with Accounts Payable and Procurement teams
Ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory standards
Ability to identify procedural and internal control weaknesses and provide suggestions and guidance for improvement.
Familiarity with vendor master data standards is highly valued

Nice To Haves

6+ months experience with Les Schwab Accounting systems and processes preferred

Responsibilities

Vendor Setup and Maintenance Support: Serves as the primary headquarters contact for all HQ and Tire Centers regarding vendor onboarding and ongoing vendor maintenance. Responsibilities include initiating and validating vendor setup and changes within accounting systems, ensuring proper documentation (e.g., W-9 forms, vendor invoices, and authorization approvals) is collected and retained in compliance with company policies and IRS regulations. Conducts TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number) verifications, validates vendor data for accuracy and completeness, and responds to inquiries related to vendor records. Ensures timely resolution of discrepancies and supports internal audit and compliance efforts.
System Implementation and Process Improvement: Actively participates in testing and user validation for financial system implementations and enhancements, including projects such as VOL, ProcessMaker, and AP Automation. Updates process documentation and standard operating procedures (SOPs) as needed to reflect system changes and improved workflows. Provides feedback to technical teams to support user-friendly and efficient system functionality.
1099 Reporting and Compliance: Supports the monthly and annual 1099 reporting process, including vendor data reconciliation, compliance reviews, and timely submission to federal and state agencies. Assists in identifying discrepancies and correcting vendor records to ensure accurate tax reporting.
Journal Entries and Transaction Processing: Prepare, review, and post advanced journal entries, accruals, reclasses, and other routine or adjusting entries to the general ledger. Ensure all entries are accurately documented and comply with company policy and accounting standards.
Compliance, GAAP, and Multi-Jurisdictional Reporting: Support compliance efforts by conducting basic research on regulatory and accounting requirements across jurisdictions. Ensure financial practices align with internal policies, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and applicable tax and reporting standards.