Staff Accountant
Industry: Agriculture/Farming Operations
Reports To: Controller or Finance Manager

Position Summary

The Staff Accountant is responsible for supporting the day-to-day accounting and financial operations of a growing agricultural business. This role ensures accurate financial reporting, maintains accounting records, supports month-end and year-end close processes, and helps ensure compliance with company policies, agricultural regulations, and financial controls. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced agricultural environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

General Accounting

• Prepare and post journal entries, accruals, and adjusting entries.
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure accuracy of financial records.
• Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes.
• Reconcile bank accounts, credit cards, and balance sheet accounts.
• Review account activity and investigate discrepancies.

Accounts Payable and Receivable

• Review invoices for proper coding and approval.
• Process vendor payments and ensure timely payment of obligations.
• Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies.
• Support customer invoicing and collection activities as needed.
• Monitor aging reports and follow up on outstanding balances.

Agricultural Cost Accounting

• Track and analyze farming, harvesting, packing, and operational costs.
• Assist in monitoring labor, equipment, irrigation, and input expenses.
• Prepare cost reports by ranch, crop, field, or production unit.
• Support inventory valuation and fixed asset accounting.
• Maintain records related to farming operations and agricultural assets.

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Prepare monthly financial reports and supporting schedules.
• Assist with annual audits and tax preparation requests.
• Maintain documentation in accordance with company policies and accounting standards.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and financial procedures.
• Support grant, contract, or government reporting requirements when applicable.

Budgeting and Analysis

• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and forecasts.
• Analyze budget-to-actual variances and provide explanations.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
• Support management with financial analysis and special projects.

Administrative Support

• Maintain organized accounting files and records.
• Assist with inventory reconciliations and fixed asset tracking.
• Participate in system implementations and process improvement initiatives.
• Perform other accounting and administrative duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field required.

Experience

• 5 years of accounting experience preferred.
• Experience in agriculture, farming, food processing, manufacturing, or related industries is highly desirable.
• Experience with ERP systems and accounting software preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of GAAP and accounting principles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with payroll, inventory, and cost accounting preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage deadlines and work independently.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and work on a computer for extended periods.
• Occasional visits to ranches, packing facilities, warehouses, or operational sites.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Stable and growing agricultural organization

Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.