SR STAFF ACCOUNTANT

El Pollo Loco•Costa Mesa, CA

About The Position

Performs a wide range of professional accounting duties in support of the organization's general ledger, month-end close, and financial reporting processes. Prepares and reviews complex journal entries, performs balance sheet account reconciliations, and conducts variance and trend analysis across multiple general ledger accounts. Assists in the preparation of detailed schedules and supporting documentation for quarterly reviews and annual audits. Serves as a technical resource to staff accountants and partners cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information. Contributes to process improvement initiatives and supports the accounting team in maintaining a strong internal control environment.

Requirements

BS in Accounting or Finance required.
Minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of progressive accounting experience required, with prior month-end close, journal entry, and reconciliation experience.
Strong working knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) required.
CPA required (or CPA-equivalent with strong technical accounting background considered).

Nice To Haves

Multi-unit restaurant, retail, or hospitality industry experience preferred.
Public accounting experience a plus.
Familiarity with SOX compliance preferred.

Responsibilities

Prepare, review, and post complex journal entries during the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy and proper supporting documentation.
Perform and review balance sheet account reconciliations for assigned general ledger accounts, including cash, prepaid expenses, accrued liabilities, fixed assets, and intercompany accounts; research and resolve reconciling items in a timely manner.
Conduct monthly variance analysis and fluctuation reviews, providing clear written explanations of significant variances to management.
Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and internal management reporting packages.
Prepare detailed schedules, workpapers, and supporting documentation for quarterly reviews, annual audits, and tax filings; serve as a key point of contact for external auditors on assigned areas.
Support SOX compliance by executing and documenting key internal controls in accordance with company policies and control narratives.
Identify, recommend, and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability of accounting operations.
Provide guidance, training, and informal mentorship to staff accountants and serve as a subject matter resource on accounting policies, procedures, and systems.
Partner with cross-functional teams (Operations, FP&A, Treasury, Tax, AP/AR) to research transactions, resolve discrepancies, and support business decision-making.
Research and apply GAAP and company accounting policies to routine and moderately complex transactions; escalate technical accounting questions as appropriate.
Participate in special projects, system enhancements, and ad-hoc analyses as assigned.
Interact professionally and ethically, constructively participating as a collaborative team member in pursuit of common goals.