Staff Accountant

Overview

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the greater New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets with a rail-served landfill in Ohio.  IWS is committed to delivering high-quality waste, recycling and environmental services, while prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers and communities. We cater to a diverse range of industrial, medical and commercial/residential customers.

Founded in 1998, IWS has grown over the years through acquisitions, many of which were family-owned businesses that remain a part of our team today. We’re proud to combine the resources of a large company with the values and care of a family-run business.

Essential Job Summary:

As a pivotal member of our Finance team, the Staff Accountant will support the Accounting Manager in managing the financial operations of our waste management business unit. This role includes assisting with full-cycle accounting functions such as profit and loss (P&L) analysis, lease accounting, balance sheet reconciliations, and managing prepaid expenses. The Staff Accountant will contribute to accurate financial reporting, performance analysis, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards. This position offers an opportunity to play a crucial role in the financial management of a dynamic industry.

Essential Job Functions: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other minor duties may be assigned.

• Financial Analysis: Assist with the preparation and analysis of monthly profit and loss (P&L) statements. Review financial data to identify trends, variances, and areas for improvement. Provide insights and recommendations to support financial decision-making.
• Lease Accounting: Support the Accounting Manager in managing accounting for operating and finance leases. Ensure compliance with ASC 842 and other relevant standards. Help track lease-related transactions, including liabilities and right-of-use assets. Prepare and review lease amortization schedules.
• Balance Sheet Reconciliations: Perform regular balance sheet reconciliations to ensure accuracy and integrity of financial records. Investigate and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Prepaid Expenses: Manage prepaid expenses by recording, tracking, and amortizing prepaid costs. Ensure accurate and timely recognition of expenses in the financial statements.
• Accounting Support: Assist the Accounting Manager with full-cycle accounting duties, including preparing and reviewing journal entries, maintaining the general ledger, and supporting month-end close processes.
• Maintain daily Transportation and Disposal “T&D” logs for each operating location. Reconcile all invoices for T&D against logs and approve for processing.
• Financial Reporting: Contribute to the preparation of periodic financial reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with GAAP and company policies. Generate and distribute financial reports as needed.
• Audit Preparation: Help prepare schedules and documentation for internal and external audits. Support the Accounting Manager in addressing auditor inquiries and implementing recommended improvements.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements in accounting procedures. Implement best practices to enhance efficiency and accuracy in financial operations.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with other departments to gather necessary financial information and ensure accurate accounting treatment of transactions. Collaborate with procurement and legal teams on lease documentation and other financial matters.
• Adapt to new tasks and challenges as they become relevant to the role.
• Take initiative to learn and develop new skills to support evolving business needs.
• Work closely with management to align new objectives and deliverables.

Requirements and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of accounting experience is required. Experience in the waste management industry is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in general ledger systems; experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a plus.
• Understanding of GAAP and regulatory requirements related to the waste management industry.
• Experience with lease accounting, balance sheet reconciliations, and prepaid expense management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly and effectively.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint), with advanced Excel sk