Accountant, Accounting & Finance, Financial Analyst

First West Insurance is hiring for an experienced person to join our accounting team. We are a locally owned independent insurance agency with a 52-year presence in the Gallatin Valley. The position is responsible for accurate and timely recording of financial transactions with adherence to internal controls. Candidates need excellent communication skills, ability to organize multiple tasks, exceptional attention to detail, strong math and computer skills and a desire to develop caring and committed working relationships with clients and co-workers.

The benefits package includes:
Paid cafeteria plan (election options: health, dental & vision insurance, day care & medical reimbursement), retirement plan with matching contribution by First West, paid disability & life insurance & paid time off and holidays.

OUR CORE VALUES

First West is a professional organization which provides the best insurance and risk management services to our clientele. Our employees’ goals are the attainment of knowledge, and the highest level of insurance competence blended with our attitude of service to both client, company, and fellow employees.

• Genuine in our actions
• Respect is earned

OUR PURPOSE
Protecting a great quality of life for our people and our community.

OUR NICHE
Helping our community navigate insurance.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The position is responsible for adhering to policies, procedures, and internal financial controls to ensure efficient, compliant accounting. Transaction maintenance and assistance with financial reporting are central functions. Included in these responsibilities are the assurance of accounts payable in a timely manner, managing the collection of accounts receivable, processing and accuracy of payroll, and banking reconciliation. This position reports directly to the Director of Finance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensure accurate and timely recording of financial transactions by following appropriate financial controls
• Day-to-day activities of accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash disbursements, invoicing/billing, daily deposits and payroll processing
• Diligently ensure payroll is processed accurately and timely along with payment of taxes and the filing of quarterly tax reports in multiple states
• Accurate and timely recording of journal entries
• Calculate monthly new business production and oversee timely monthly payment to production staff
• In conjunction with the Director of Finance, administer the various benefit programs for staff and evaluate and monitor program components which include 401k, Cafeteria Plan, Health Insurance, Group Life and Disability Insurance
• Interface professionally and competently with outside firms such as accounting firms, banks, insurance company partners, investment advisors, payment processing companies, IT vendors
• Bank account reconciliations
• Assist Director of Finance with month-end close tasks
• Assist Director of Finance with year-end close tasks
• Maintain agency licensing in all states; file annual reports in each state requiring them
• Must effectively prioritize and organize work and coordinate work with the Director of Finance
• Assist in preparation of budgets and other financial reports
• Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree from four-year college or university preferred; five or more years accounting related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Insurance industry experience preferred but not required.

Must be able to calculate figures and amounts for all bookkeeping functions including payroll. The ability to use the utmost discretion in all presentations/correspondence and communication for staff, management, and the Board of Directors. Integrity and confidentiality are paramount.

The ability to understand and work in a true general ledger accounting system is required.

The ability to organize work and meet hard deadlines is essential.

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.

Working knowledge of and adherence to accounting practices, standards and procedures, including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

Strong working…