Staff Accountant

EquiTrust External•Chicago, IL

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

EquiTrust Life Insurance Company is a national carrier of competitive, client-friendly annuity products sold through a variety of distribution channels, including more than 20,000 independent agents and independent marketing organizations (IMOs). Since 2003, we have provided exceptional customer service to our clients by operating with integrity and passion. Our efforts are supported by a dedicated workforce who execute their responsibilities through teamwork and an entrepreneurial spirit. EquiTrust sells products nationwide and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with operations in West Des Moines, Iowa. As a Staff Accountant, you will support daily financial reporting and accounting activities, including reconciliations, journal entries, financial analysis, and general ledger maintenance. You will contribute to monthly and quarterly close processes and assist with financial statements, regulatory filings, and audit requests. This role works closely with the Financial Reporting and Accounting teams and business partners across the organization to maintain accurate, complete, and timely financial information. We are looking for a collaborative, detail-oriented professional who brings foundational accounting knowledge, sound judgment, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required
Demonstrated understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and fundamental financial accounting concepts.
Knowledge of the accounting cycle, including journal entries, account reconciliations, accruals, and month-end close processes.
Foundational knowledge of accounting principles and practices.
Strong attention to detail and the ability to review work for accuracy and completeness.
Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain financial information clearly.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet established deadlines.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across departments.
Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word.
Adaptability and a willingness to learn new responsibilities, processes, and systems.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting preferred
Previous financial accounting internship or at least one year of junior-level corporate accounting experience preferred.
Familiarity with Statutory Accounting Principles preferred.
CPA designation or progress toward obtaining a CPA preferred.

Responsibilities

Prepare journal entries related to accounts payable, payroll, taxes, investments, treasury, and operations.
Complete general ledger and bank reconciliations to support accurate and complete financial records.
Assist with monthly and quarterly closing activities.
Reconcile daily accounting feeds and resolve errors or discrepancies.
Prepare and upload statutory filings into the regulatory reporting system.
Process regulatory fee payments and related filings.
Provide documentation and support for internal and external audit requests.
Maintain checklists and logs used to manage workflows and deadlines.
Cross-train on accounting responsibilities and serve as a backup when needed.
Support the Financial Reporting and Accounting teams and other departments as business needs arise.
Contribute to department and Company goals by collaborating effectively and fostering a positive, inclusive work environment.