Accounting Manager

Lightwave Logic (Nasdaq: LWLG) is a publicly traded materials development company that is conducting cutting-edge work to commercialize its proprietary organic nonlinear polymers for a variety of electro-optic devices and pushing the state of the art in high-speed fiber-optic telecom and data communications. Our development roadmap is designed to disrupt the industry by introducing organic modulators and related photonic integrated circuits that offer superior speed, lower power consumption, and smaller size compared to current technologies.

Our materials are extendable into other applications, including sensors and quantum computing.

The Accounting Manager plays a vital role in supporting the accounting team through the full cycle of month-end closing and reporting, payroll processing, and SOX compliance. This position involves overseeing the accurate preparation of internal financial statements, reconciliations, and assist with budgeting and forecasting while serving as the primary contact for month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes. In addition to managing general ledger, payroll and stock-based compensation administration, the Accounting Manager collaborates with various departments, ensuring seamless communication and efficiency in internal financial reporting, budgeting and forecasting.

A team player, they actively engage with external auditors and internal stakeholders, driving process improvements and fostering an environment of accuracy and innovation.

• Serve as a primary point of contact for the month-end and year-end closing process, including stock-based compensation, fixed assets, payroll accruals, prepaids, property tax, patents, etc.
• Prepare Balance Sheet reconciliations and ensure timely resolution of outstanding items.
• Oversee daily cash application activities.
• Own the Company’s SOX controls, as appropriate for the level of the position. Identify areas of improvement and ways to streamline underlying processes. Work with the outsourced internal audit team on resolving any questions and issues pertaining to the assigned controls.
• Supervise accurate and timely preparation of sales and use tax filings and 1099 filings.
• Process semi-monthly payroll and record related journal entries.
• Maintain employee stock plan records using a third-party provider platform.
• Assist with the preparation of annual budgets and quarterly forecasts (PL and cash basis).
• Assist with external audits by providing auditors with necessary documentation and explanations.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements in accounting procedures and systems and work with the team to implement changes for enhanced efficiency and accuracy.
• Supervise Staff Accountant’s work, including review and approval of journal entries and reconciliations prepared by the Staff Accountant.
• Serve as a primary owner of reporting in Net Suite.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including those relating to the implementation of additional ERP modules and establishing accounting flow of new transactions and internal processes to support them.

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.
• CPA required
• 6+ years of experience in a related position with similar responsibilities and managing individuals.
• Proficiency in Net Suite is preferred.
• Experience with Payroll processing, stock-based compensation accounting, and budgeting/forecasting support.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word, including the preparation of Financial Statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
• Ability to adapt to changes in the work environment and manage competing demands.
• Effective time management, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
• Typical office environment: occasional lifting or moving of supplies may be required.

Lightwave Logic offers a highly competitive compensation package including stock options, as well as comprehensive benefits including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage (employee and family), a generous PTO policy, $500/year (prorated) company contribution to your medical FSA, and a 401K (safe harbor, 4% match).

Lightwave Logic is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.