Plant Accountant Associate

Packaging Corporation of America•Northampton, MA

About The Position

The Associate Plant Accountant is responsible for performing general accounting activities for the plant. Ensure day-to-day maintenance of a complete and accurate general ledger, prepare basic financial reports, and analyze and report any variances. PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES: Complete accurate and timely monthly, quarterly and year-end close processes, including the preparation of estimates and accruals. Identify and report accounting discrepancies and irregularities. Help ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures including PCA’s SOX 404 Key Controls. Engage in general accounting activities including the accurate and complete preparation, maintenance and reconciliation of general ledger accounts and financial reports, such as balance sheets, profit-loss statements, and capital expenditure reports. Prepare periodic reports that compare forecast costs to actual costs. Follow up on customer accounts including customer credit issuances and collection activity. Ensure accurate processing of hourly payroll and related payroll/employee functions. Confirm all payroll transactions comply with company policies, as well as all state and federal requirements. Prepare accounting records, financial statements, and other financial reports to assess accuracy, completeness, and conformance to reporting and procedural standards. Know and follow policies and procedures of the company, share information that would benefit other members of the team, and find ways to improve the delivery of service to our customers. Strive to continually strengthen PCA’s business philosophy of meeting needs and exceeding expectations for customers specifically supporting PCA’s Commitment to Service which involves doing what’s right for our customers, focusing on strategies that add value and support growth, and keeping the promises that we make.

Requirements

Education equivalent to a bachelor’s degree or previous work experience in a business office/accounting department with exposure to general ledger, payroll, and/or invoicing, credit/collections, accounts payable functions is preferred.
Strong working knowledge of computer systems such as Microsoft Office preferably with exceptional knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
Experience with financial systems for invoicing, accounts payable, payroll, and general ledger required.
Solid understanding and working knowledge of standard financial/accounting procedures, GAAP concepts and principles, and internal control.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle numerous details, deadlines, and requests.
Ability to work in a fast paced, deadline-oriented environment, prioritize assignments, and handle multiple projects and/or requests concurrently.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to handle detail-oriented tasks and review multiple documents and reports.
Solid written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to network and build relationships with individuals of various experience and corporate positions.
Strong listening, evaluating, and organizational skills.
Previous experience working in a team environment preferred, or a strong understanding of the importance of open communication and information sharing among co-workers.

Nice To Haves

Education equivalent to a bachelor’s degree with a major in accounting or finance preferred.
Previous experience in the manufacturing sector, containerboard, and corrugated packaging industry preferred.

Responsibilities

Complete accurate and timely monthly, quarterly and year-end close processes, including the preparation of estimates and accruals.
Identify and report accounting discrepancies and irregularities.
Help ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures including PCA’s SOX 404 Key Controls.
Engage in general accounting activities including the accurate and complete preparation, maintenance and reconciliation of general ledger accounts and financial reports, such as balance sheets, profit-loss statements, and capital expenditure reports.
Prepare periodic reports that compare forecast costs to actual costs.
Follow up on customer accounts including customer credit issuances and collection activity.
Ensure accurate processing of hourly payroll and related payroll/employee functions. Confirm all payroll transactions comply with company policies, as well as all state and federal requirements.
Prepare accounting records, financial statements, and other financial reports to assess accuracy, completeness, and conformance to reporting and procedural standards.
Know and follow policies and procedures of the company, share information that would benefit other members of the team, and find ways to improve the delivery of service to our customers.
Strive to continually strengthen PCA’s business philosophy of meeting needs and exceeding expectations for customers specifically supporting PCA’s Commitment to Service which involves doing what’s right for our customers, focusing on strategies that add value and support growth, and keeping the promises that we make.