Junior Staff Accountant

Job DescriptionWe are seeking a junior-level Staff Accountant to support daily financial operations for our well-respected Sacramento-based client. The role is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial records while delivering professional, service-focused support to internal teams, vendors, and other stakeholders. The ideal candidate brings a bachelor's degree in accounting and at least two years of hands-on experience in accounting or finance. They understand GAAP, financial statements, and accrual-based accounting, with working knowledge of matching principles, natural account balances, depreciation, and amortization. The organization offers a driven environment where employees contribute to meaningful financial well-being within the communities they serve. The culture emphasizes collaboration, service excellence, and a supportive workplace grounded in integrity, respect, and continuous improvement.$28-$29/hour (DOE)Hybrid role for a 6 month contract. (contract to hire)PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:Analyzes general ledger activity, maintains sub-ledgers, and performs reconciliations to research and resolve discrepancies.Prepares journal entries, supports month-end close activities, and reviews income statement variances to ensure accurate financial reporting.Contributes to internal and external financial reports, including statements, cash flow, variance analyses, regulatory filings, and ad-hoc reporting.Develops and improves accounting processes, procedures, and system workflows to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and internal controls.Participates in departmental projects by providing subject-matter expertise, leading issue-resolution meetings, and advising management on accounting matters.Ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, internal controls, and organizational policies, including audit preparation and documentation.Supports budgeting activities by analyzing historical performance, forecasting future impacts, and validating work completed by junior accounting staff.Enhances productivity through automation, elimination of redundancies, and coordination of information requirements across accounting functions.SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.Two or more years of experience in accounting, finance, or a financial-services environment preferred.Working knowledge of GAAP, financial statement concepts, accrual-based accounting, internal controls, and core accounting principles such as matching, natural account balances, depreciation, and amortization.Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel (formulas and troubleshooting), Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint, along with comfort using PDF editing tools and virtual meeting platforms.Ability to learn and navigate accounting, reconciliation, HRIS, and financial reporting systems; experience with mid-market or enterprise financial software preferred.Strong organizational, time-management, and prioritization skills, with the ability to manage shifting deadlines and maintain accuracy and attention to detail.Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, accountability, and commitment to high-quality work, service excellence, and continuous improvement.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to identify issues, recommend solutions, and support cross-functional partners.Commitment to ongoing professional development, openness to new ideas, and the ability to adapt to change while maintaining a positive, collaborative mindset.