Junior Accountant

Burke Porter, an Ascential Technologies Brand•, MI

About The Position

Ascential Technologies is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Junior Accountant to join its growing corporate accounting team. This early-career role provides broad exposure to corporate accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance within a dynamic, multi-site industrial organization. The Junior Accountant supports the monthly close process, prepares journal entries and account reconciliations, maintains financial records and supporting documentation, assists with internal controls and audit activities, and contributes to accurate and reliable financial reporting. The role works closely with the Corporate Controller and offers opportunities for professional development and career growth. Ascential Technologies is a global industrial technology company operating in automotive testing and validation, medical and life sciences, and advanced manufacturing. The Grand Rapids, Michigan site is part of the Burke Porter Group, which specializes in vehicle testing, automation, and end-of-line measurement systems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.
0–2 years of accounting experience, including internships, co-op programs, or entry-level accounting positions.
Basic understanding of U.S. GAAP and fundamental accounting principles.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment.
Demonstrated problem-solving and analytical abilities.
Strong desire to learn and develop within a corporate accounting environment.

Nice To Haves

CPA candidate or active pursuit of CPA licensure.
Public accounting internship or prior accounting experience.
Experience with ERP systems, preferably Oracle.
Exposure to account reconciliations, financial reporting, internal controls, or audit support activities.
Experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or multi-site business environment.

Responsibilities

Support monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes by preparing journal entries, maintaining supporting schedules, and completing assigned close activities on time.
Prepare and maintain balance sheet account reconciliations, investigate reconciling items, and resolve discrepancies promptly.
Assist with intercompany account reconciliations, identify mismatches, coordinate resolution efforts, and track outstanding items to timely settlement.
Maintain fixed asset records, including additions, disposals, transfers, depreciation calculations, and monthly reconciliations between the fixed asset subledger and general ledger.
Support lease accounting by maintaining lease data and schedules and assisting with compliance related to ASC 842.
Execute assigned internal controls and maintain audit-ready documentation supporting the internal control framework and financial reporting processes.
Gather, organize, and retain supporting documentation and control evidence for internal and external audits.
Assist with audit schedules, Prepared by Client (PBC) requests, and responses to internal and external auditors.
Support corporate tax compliance by gathering information requested by external tax advisors and preparing supporting schedules as needed.
Maintain accurate financial records and documentation in accordance with corporate policies, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with finance and operational teams to obtain information, resolve issues, and improve accounting processes.
Identify process improvement opportunities and communicate potential risks, discrepancies, or control concerns to the Corporate Controller.
Perform additional accounting, reporting, and analysis duties as assigned.