Staff Accountant

***LOCAL CHICAGOLAND CANDIDATES ONLY***Staff Accountant (Contract-to-Hire Opportunity)📍 Location: Downers Grove, IL (Hybrid – 3 days onsite) 💼 Type: Contract-to-Hire ⏱ Start Date: ASAP 💰 Compensation: $28–$30/hour | estimated at $65K upon conversion 📝 Interview Process: Virtual interview → quick startAbout the OpportunityOur client, a mid-sized water filtration organization, is seeking a detail-oriented Staff Accountant to join a collaborative and fast-paced finance team. This role will support core accounting functions including month-end close, fixed assets, lease accounting, and financial reporting.This is a great opportunity for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment, enjoys working across multiple accounting areas, and is eager to grow within an organization.Key ResponsibilitiesMonth-End ClosePrepare and post recurring journal entriesRecord accruals across AP, tax, audit, IT, and professional feesEnsure proper expense recognition, including board-related costsPerform balance sheet reconciliationsSupport audit requests and documentationFixed Assets & Capital ProjectsReview and manage Construction in Progress (CIP) activity with Finance leadershipCapitalize assets and ensure proper classificationMaintain PP&E roll-forward schedulesPartner with Treasury on month-to-date capital activityLease AccountingTrack and set up new leasesMaintain lease schedules and roll-forwardsEnsure compliance with ASC 842Intangibles & PrepaidsManage amortization of intangibles and prepaid expensesAllocate insurance-related expenses (e.g., Workers’ Comp)Support intercompany eliminationsQualificationsRequiredBachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field2+ years of general ledger accounting experienceExperience working with ERP/accounting systemsStrong understanding of GAAPHigh attention to detail and strong organizational skillsAbility to work independently in a fast-paced environmentStrong communication and interpersonal skillsPreferredExperience with JD Edwards (EnterpriseOne) or SAPAdvanced Microsoft Excel skillsExposure to fixed assets, accruals, prepaids, and reconciliationsManufacturing industry experienceFamiliarity with Lean, Kaizen, or continuous improvement methodologiesWhy This Role?Broad exposure across multiple accounting functionsOpportunity to convert to a full-time roleCollaborative team environment with strong leadership supportHybrid flexibility