Accountant (Life Sciences/Pharma R&D Focus)

About Us: We are a privately held, stealth mode start-up biotechnology company developing lipid nanoparticle-based approaches to address unmet medical needs.Position Overview: We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Accountant with 2-3 years of experience to manage our core financial operations. The ideal candidate will have a foundational understanding of accounting principles, preferably within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or R&D sectors. You will play a crucial role in managing Accounts Payable (AP), driving the month-end close process, assisting with budget preparation, and ensuring the smooth execution of daily financial activities.Key Responsibilities:Accounts Payable (AP) Management:Oversee the full AP cycle, ensuring accurate and timely processing of vendor invoices, employee expense reports, and corporate credit cards.Maintain vendor relationships and resolve any billing discrepancies.Manage weekly payment runs (ACH, wire, checks) and optimize cash flow timing.Month-End Close & Reporting:Execute the month-end and year-end close processes, including preparing journal entries, accruals (especially R&D-specific accruals like clinical trial expenses), and account reconciliations.Prepare balance sheets, income statements, and other financial reports.Ensure all financial records comply with US GAAP.Budgeting & Financial Analysis:Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and quarterly forecasts.Monitor departmental spending, analyze Budget vs. Actual (BVA) variances.Track project-based costs specific to R&D activities (e.g., lab supplies, CRO/CMO expenses).Daily Operations & Compliance:Manage daily bank reconciliations and cash tracking.Assist with the preparation of schedules for external audits and tax filings (e.g., 1099 reporting).Continuously identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes and improve internal controls.Qualifications:Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. (CPA or CMA track is a plus, but not required).Experience: 3 to 5 years of progressive accounting experience.Industry Preference: Prior experience in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or R&D industry is highly preferred. Understanding of project-based accounting or R&D accruals is a strong advantage.Technical Skills:Proficiency in accounting software/ERPs (e.g., QuickBooks Advanced, SAP, or similar).Advanced Excel skills (VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, SUMIFS).Soft Skills:Strong attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines.Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with non-finance teams (e.g., R&D scientists, project managers).Bilingual (English/Mandarin) is required.What We Offer:Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.401(k) plan.Opportunities for professional growth within a fast-paced R&D environment.