Staff Accountant

Description We are looking for an experienced Staff Accountant to join a scientific instrument manufacturing organization in Aurora, Illinois on a contract basis with the potential for a permanent position. This role supports core accounting operations through accurate journal activity, account reconciliation, and tax-related administration while helping maintain strong financial controls. The ideal candidate brings a solid background in general ledger accounting, corporate and sales tax support, and day-to-day financial analysis in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

- Record daily financial activity by preparing and posting journal entries, including bank-related transactions, with supporting documentation and proper accounting treatment.

- Perform routine bank reconciliations and monthly balance sheet account reviews, identifying variances and resolving discrepancies in a timely manner.

- Examine employee expense submissions and vendor invoice coding to confirm accuracy, policy compliance, and appropriate authorization before processing.

- Serve as the administrator for accounts payable workflows by maintaining approval structures, cost center data, audit settings, and related controls to support efficient processing.

- Oversee the corporate credit card program, including card setup and cancellation, transaction reconciliation, and ongoing account monitoring.

- Prepare and submit sales tax filings, maintain exemption certificate records, and address tax questions from internal stakeholders, customers, and external agencies.

- Support broader tax and compliance activities by assisting with income tax payments, 1099 reporting, and responses to government or regulatory inquiries.

- Act as a point of coordination between the company and third-party partners on accounting and tax matters while remaining current on applicable financial regulations.

- Provide backup coverage for other accounting functions as needed to ensure continuity across the finance team. Requirements - 5+ years of accounting experience in a staff accountant or similar role.

- Strong working knowledge of journal entries, general ledger activity, and account reconciliation.

- Experience supporting corporate tax and sales tax processes, including return preparation and compliance documentation.

- Ability to research discrepancies, interpret financial data, and apply sound judgment to resolve issues accurately.

- Familiarity with accounts payable controls, expense review, and invoice validation procedures.

- Proficiency using accounting systems and spreadsheets to manage financial records and reporting tasks.

- Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple deadlines in a detail-oriented environment.

Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

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All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit  for more information.

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