Sr Accountant

Description

Blaze is currently seeking a Sr Accountant. The Sr Accountant will maintain a high level of knowledge and understanding of the corporate and member accounting areas to ensure preparation of accounting entries and reports in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Perform high level accounting functions on a daily, monthly, quarterly and annual basis relating to a wide array of areas including but not limited to various types of internally originated loans, purchased and sold loan pools, allowance for credit losses, other real estate owned, origination accounting, fixed assets, accounts payable, cash accounts and employee benefits.

• Ensure the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements to report financial performance to senior management, the Board of Directors and the Supervisory Committee.
• Assist in the preparation of accurate and timely regulatory reporting including but not limited to the quarterly NCUA Call Report and various annual IRS forms.
• Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and yearly reconciliations of various general ledger accounts.
• Participate in the month-end closing process to ensure accounts are in balance and all appropriate entries are recorded timely.
• Assist and support other Blaze employees in researching and resolving issues related to financial data, accounting records, or other issues.

Conduct research and lead projects related to the advancement of Blaze's goals and objectives specifically within the accounting function.

• Evaluate reports and functions and recommend new approaches and procedures to affect continual improvements in efficiency.
• Streamline accounting processes to maximize efficiency and effectiveness within the department.
• Manage the flow and function of projects selected for implementation ensuring timely and successful implementation.
• Serve as the accounting department liaison when required for projects involving other departments or functional areas.
• Manage special projects as assigned.

Participate in periodic or annual department activities.

• Assist in the execution of the budget project plan as necessary to ensure information flow with department managers
• Prepare information in conjunction with internal and external audits and regulatory examinations.
• Assist with merger project plan tasks as necessary to ensure the adherence to GAAP purchase accounting.

Other Duties

• Comply with applicable laws and regulations, including but not limited to, the Bank Secrecy Act, the Patriot Act, and the Office of Foreign Assets Control
• Exhibit Blaze's Core Value's: Better Lives, Thoughtfully Compassionate, Minnesota's Best, and Give Back
• Regular and predictable attendance
• Perform other duties as assigned to support effective department operation

Requirements

Experience/Education/Certifications/Licenses

• Associates or bachelors degree in accounting; minimum High School degree or equivalent experience
• Minimum 4 years experience as an accountant
• Strong preference for any of the following: experience working in a financial institution, experience with the DNA Platform (Fiserv), or an active CPA designation.

Demonstrated Knowledge

• Microsoft Excel and Word
• Ability to:

Develop finance related calculations to incorporate into spreadsheet procedures

Solve problems, make sound decisions and exercise good judgment

Organize multiple tasks in a fast paced environment

• Willingness to learn company and industry specific processes, procedures, and principles
• In depth knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles applicable to the industry.

Communication Skills

Ability to proactively respond to members/staff politely and timely.

Physical Requirements

Ability to sit and stand; answer calls; operate computer; interact with internal staff and public on the phone; travel to designated offices; lift up to 20 lbs.

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere, and we encourage diverse applicant depth and breadth. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We are committed to providing salary ranges for all open positions. Please note that the specific compensation for this role will be determined based on your experience, qualifications, location, and internal equity considerations.

The starting salary range for this position is: $30.35 - $40.00. This range reflects the base starting salary for this position. We have other benefits associated with this position which include: low-cost medical (as low as $20 a paycheck), dental insurance, vision insurance, quarterly bonuses, generous vacation and sick time hours, paid leave options, up to 6% 401k contribution, and tuition reimbursement.