Staff Accountant

Position Summary

The Staff Accountant supports core accounting, cash management, and compliance functions for a California-based wine importer and distributor. This role is responsible for general ledger–level cash accounting, accounts payable disbursements, tax preparation and filing, billbacks processing, and oversight of AP-related accounting activities. The position works closely with the Accounting Manager, Senior Accountant, Credit & Collections, Buyers, Warehouse, and external suppliers to ensure accurate financial records, timely close processes, and strong internal controls.

This role is well suited for a developing accountant seeking broader exposure to operational accounting, compliance, and month-end close in a distribution environment.

Key Responsibilities

Cash Accounting

Clear cash activity in the ERP as part of daily and monthly bank reconciliation processes.
Post direct cash activity not flowing through AP, including wires, bank fees, and adjustments.
Coordinate with Credit & Collections to ensure accurate cash balances at the general ledger level.
Process NSF transactions and assist with related follow-up.
Review Positive Pay files and resolve exceptions in accordance with internal controls.
Accounts Payable Disbursements & Cash Execution

Prepare and manage AP payment runs in coordination with the AP Specialist and Accounting Manager.
Initiate approved payment batches in the bank (ACH, wire, and check).
Ensure accurate posting of AP payments to cash and AP control accounts.
Support the implementation and ongoing use of NACHA files to streamline payment processing.
Maintain appropriate documentation and adhere to established approval and payment controls.
Accounts Payable Accounting Oversight

Maintain vendor master data, including supplier setup, W-9 compliance, and banking or remittance changes.
Review AP aging for accrual completeness and unusual balances.
Prepare AP-related accruals, including freight, duty, and other import-related costs.
Investigate AP-related general ledger variances during month-end close.
Serve as backup support for AP subledger-to-GL reconciliation as needed.
Act as an accounting point of contact for supplier payment issues and exceptions.
(Invoice processing and three-way matching are handled by the AP Specialist.)
Billbacks, Incentives & Supplier Programs

Send billbacks to suppliers within one month of monthly close.
Maintain accurate billback documentation and tracking to support reconciliation and audit requirements.
Reconcile billback receivable and payable balances.
Investigate supplier billback disputes and coordinate resolution with Sales Operations and suppliers.
Ensure billbacks are accurately reflected in the general ledger and month-end close.
Tax Compliance & Regulatory Filings

Prepare and file required indirect and alcohol-related tax returns, including but not limited to:
California Import Tax
Sales & Use Tax
Distilled Spirits Tax
Hawaii General Liquor Surcharge (GLS) and Glass Tax
Federal excise tax, as applicable
Maintain organized tax work papers and supporting schedules.
Support audit and information requests related to tax filings.
Partner with the Senior Accountant and Accounting Manager for review and reconciliation to ensure appropriate separation of duties.
Month-End Close & General Ledger Support

Prepare journal entries and balance sheet reconciliations for assigned accounts.
Perform variance and flux analysis and provide explanations for fluctuations.
Ensure assigned accounts are complete, accurate, and supported by appropriate documentation.
Assist with month-end and year-end close activities.
Support annual compliance activities, including 1099 preparation and filing.
Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance preferred.
2–4 years of accounting experience, preferably in distribution, import, or consumer products.
Working knowledge of general ledger accounting, reconciliations, and month-end close.
Experience supporting tax filings or regulatory reporting strongly preferred.
Familiarity with ERP systems and multi-currency environments (Apprise experience a plus).
Proficiency in Excel, including pivot tables and reconciliation schedules.
Strong attention to…