Corporate Accountant

Position Overview

University Book Store, founded in 1900 and proudly serving the University of Washington community for over 125 years, is seeking a Corporate Accountant. This full-time, hourly position reports directly to the Chief Financial Officer and is responsible for payroll accounting, monthly general ledger closings, account reconciliations, financial reporting, tax filings, and providing broad support across departments to maintain accurate and timely financial records. The role also involves assisting with special projects, process improvements, and serving as a key point of contact within the Accounting Department. Work Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (on-site with occasional additional hours during peak periods).

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain general ledger accounts, ensuring all expenditures are properly authorized, documented, and allocated.
• Perform semi-monthly payroll accounting through the ADP system, including reconciliation and reporting of payroll expenses.
• Collaborate with sales floor staff to troubleshoot transactional issues and ensure accurate sales activity recording.
• Review and process invoices with proper coding and supporting documentation.
• Assist with monthly general ledger closings and review accounting subsystems and reconciliations.
• Prepare and post month-end closing journal entries.
• Analyze general ledger activity and research variances and fluctuations.
• Maintain strong internal controls by ensuring accurate and compliant accounting records.
• Prepare and maintain records for state, city, and local business tax filings, including payroll tax returns.
• Assist in the preparation of monthly and year-end financial statements and reports.
• Support annual financial statement audits and tax examinations by coordinating with external auditors and tax authorities.
• Ensure timely billing, tracking, and reconciliation of scholarship transactions and student accounts.
• Manage service awards tracking, billing, and reconciliation for accuracy and timely reporting.
• Provide backup assistance to the AP/AR and Cash Administrators as needed.
• Support the accounting ERP system, including testing system updates and assisting with user inquiries.
• Ensure compliance with internal accounting policies and external regulatory requirements.
• Participate in annual physical inventory counts.
• Offer financial support and guidance to non-financial staff in understanding accounting processes and requirements.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives and system enhancements.
• Serve as a reliable point of contact within the Accounting Department for day-to-day inquiries.
• Perform additional accounting duties and special projects as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (BS or BA).
• Minimum of five years of progressive accounting experience across various applications and functions.
• Strong financial reporting, analytical, and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
• Advanced Excel skills along with proficiency in MS Word and Outlook.
• Commitment to process and efficiency improvements, including leveraging technology.
• Professional and collaborative approach in interactions with colleagues, auditors, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated reliability and a strong attendance record in previous roles.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: $31.50 per hour
• Benefits: Subsidized ORCA pass, merchandise discount, and holiday pay.
• Additional benefits (medical, dental, and disability insurance; vacation and sick pay; 401k retirement plan with employer match) available once hour requirements are met.