Senior Accountant

HHM Talent is assisting a client search for a Senior Accountant in Chattanooga, TN.

Position Overview

The Senior Accountant is responsible for several core accounting functions, with primary ownership of payroll and benefits accounting, accounts receivable, and grant accounting. The position ensures transactions are recorded accurately, reconciled timely, supported by appropriate documentation, and properly reflected across the Chamber, Foundation, and related programs.

This role also assists the Accounting Manager and CFO with assigned month-end and year-end close activities, audit preparation, financial reporting support, and selected Human Resources tasks related to employee onboarding and offboarding. The Senior Accountant is expected to research and resolve accounting issues, maintain strong internal controls, and help improve processes across Finance and Operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage payroll and benefits accounting, including journal entries, allocations, accruals, and reconciliations for payroll taxes, deductions, retirement contributions, and related liabilities
• Partner with HR, payroll providers, and benefit providers to resolve discrepancies and maintain accurate payroll and benefits records.
• Oversee accounts receivable, including invoicing, payment application, reconciliations, aging reports, and coordination with departments on outstanding balances
• Maintain grant and restricted-fund accounting records, ensuring revenue and expenses are properly recorded and comply with funding requirements
• Prepare grant billings, reimbursement requests, and financial reports while monitoring budgets, spending, funding restrictions, and reporting deadlines
• Support month-end and year-end close through journal entries, account reconciliations, general ledger review, and supporting schedules
• Assist the Accounting Manager and CFO with financial reporting, budget-to-actual analysis, variance research, and audit preparation
• Support employee onboarding and offboarding through payroll and benefits coordination, required documentation, and limited HR administrative assistance
• Maintain accurate, confidential, and audit-ready records in compliance with GAAP, internal controls, and organizational policies
• Improve accounting procedures, documentation, and system use while supporting cross-training, backup coverage, and special projects

Qualifications

• Experience with payroll and benefits accounting, accounts receivable, and grant or restricted-fund accounting
• Strong understanding of general ledger accounting, account reconciliations, and month-end close procedures
• Knowledge of GAAP, internal controls, and accounting documentation requirements
• Experience preparing audit schedules and maintaining organized, accurate financial records
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to research discrepancies and resolve accounting issues
• Ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and take ownership of assigned responsibilities
• Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate with HR, program staff, external providers, and Finance leadership
• Sound judgment when handling confidential employee and financial information
• Ability to identify process improvements and document clear, consistent accounting procedures

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual salary of $75,000–$85,000
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with 100% of employee-only medical premiums paid by the company
• 401(k) with a 6% company contribution regardless of employee participation, plus up to an additional 4% company match
• Fully company-paid short-term disability insurance
• Life insurance coverage equal to twice the employee's annual salary
• Two weeks of paid time off