Client Accounting Specialist

Job Summary A Client Accounting Specialist is responsible for managing the day-to-day financial operations of an assigned portfolio of client accounts. This role performs bookkeeping, account maintenance, reconciliations, month-end close procedures, financial reporting, and accounts payable and receivable functions with a high degree of accuracy and independence. The position works closely with senior accounting staff, tax specialists, payroll staff, and firm leadership to ensure client accounts remain accurate, timely, compliant, and up to date. Depending on the client needs, this role is expected to provide complete ownership of the bookkeeping lifecycle up to and including our tax specialists. This role requires strong accounting knowledge, attention to detail, organization, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple client accounts and competing deadlines. The Client Accounting Specialist communicates directly with clients regarding accounting matters, identifies and resolves discrepancies, prepares and reviews financial reports, supports tax preparation and compliance activities, and helps improve client and internal accounting processes. The position may also provide guidance and quality review for junior accounting staff and serves as a key point of contact for routine client accounting needs. Education and Experience Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field - or equivalent education and experience. At least three years of experience in bookkeeping or client accounting, including significant experience with QuickBooks Online. Knowledge Customer and Personal Service - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes assessing client needs, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluating client satisfaction. Accounting and Electronics - Strong computer skills, including the ability to learn and use accounting software, cloud-based systems, financial technology, and office technology. Strong understanding of bookkeeping and accounting principles, including debits, credits, journal entries, general ledger management, and accrual-based accounting Strong knowledge of accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank and credit card reconciliations, loan accounting, and month-end close processes Working knowledge of payroll processing, payroll reporting, payroll systems, and related compliance requirements Strong understanding of financial statements, including profit and loss reports, balance sheets, cash flow reports, and supporting account schedules Advanced working knowledge of accounting software such as QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, and Microsoft Excel Strong understanding of document organization, financial recordkeeping, workpaper preparation, and maintaining accurate client files Knowledge of general tax documentation requirements and the accounting support needed for tax preparation and compliance Professional communication skills when working directly with clients, vendors, financial institutions, and internal team members Strong understanding of confidentiality requirements and professional standards when handling sensitive financial and client information Ability to apply established accounting procedures, internal controls, firm workflows, and professional judgment to client accounts Strong attention to detail, time management, organization, and task prioritization skills in a deadline-driven environment Working knowledge of payroll processing, payroll systems, payroll tax reporting, quarterly and annual filings, and related compliance requirements Primary Job Duties Manage accurate client financial records by recording transactions, journal entries, and general ledger activity Perform and review bank, credit card, and loan account reconciliations and investigate discrepancies Own month-end close procedures for assigned client accounts, including account analysis, adjusting entries, and supporting schedules Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable processes, including invoice entry, payment tracking, and follow-up on outstanding balances Assist with payroll processing, payroll reporting, and employee record maintenance as needed Prepare, review, and explain financial reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow summaries, and supporting schedules Analyze account activity and identify unusual transactions, errors, missing documentation, and other issues requiring correction or escalation Organize and maintain supporting financial documentation, workpapers, and client files for tax preparation, reporting, audits, and compliance purposes Support tax specialists by gathering client documents, preparing accounting workpapers, and ensuring books are complete and ready for tax preparation Communicate directly with clients regarding accounting questions, missing documentation, account activity, reporting needs, and routine financial matters Maintain accurate and current client accounts in QuickBooks Online and other accounting systems while following firm standards Provide guidance and quality review to junior accounting staff on assigned client work and accounting procedures Provide assistance to senior accounting staff for client work as necessary Pay: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year Benefits 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Work from home Education: Associate (Required) Experience: Quickbooks Online: 3 years (Required) Public Accounting: 3 years (Required) Work Location: Hybrid remote in Chandler, AZ 85226