General Accountant - Payroll at Chef Works

About Chef Works:

Chef Works is a global leader in culinary fashion, committed to outfitting hospitality professionals with innovative, high-quality apparel. At Chef Works, we believe our employees are the heart of our success, and we strive to foster an environment of creativity, collaboration, and growth. As we continue to expand, our accounting team plays a pivotal role in maintaining financial integrity and supporting the company's strategic vision.

This role presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to a dynamic organization that values continuous learning and professional development. As a key member of our finance team, you will directly impact our financial health by ensuring accurate payroll processing, tax compliance, and financial reporting.

Role Overview:

Under limited supervision, the General Accountant - Payroll ensures the integrity of accounting information by recording, verifying, and entering transactions while supporting various accounting functions across multiple entities. This role is integral to maintaining smooth payroll operations and assisting with financial reporting, audits, and compliance.

Why This Role is Exciting:

At Chef Works, no two days are the same. In this hybrid role, you will not only handle essential payroll duties but also gain exposure to the full scope of financial activities, including month-end close, intercompany transactions, and year-end audits. You'll work closely with cross-functional teams, both domestically and internationally, sharpening your skills and contributing to a fast-growing company with a dynamic and entrepreneurial environment.

Our Hybrid Work Program:

Chef Works believes in balancing collaboration and flexibility. We operate a hybrid work schedule, with in-office work in Poway on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and every other Wednesday. Fridays and alternate Wednesdays are remote workdays, though team members can opt to work additional hours in the office. Please note: this is not a fully remote position.

Key Responsibilities:

Payroll Management:

Process bi-weekly payroll, including off-cycle checks for our corporate office and Canadian subsidiary.

Handle multi-state payroll for over 200 employees, including hourly, salary, commissions, and bonuses.

Financial Reporting:

Maintain books and records for three related-party entities, ensuring compliance with year-end financial reporting requirements and tax filings.

Prepare quarterly estimated tax payments and collaborate with external tax preparers.

Accounts Payable Support:

Assist with invoice entry for inventory and vendor management.

Help prepare and maintain vendor applications.

Month-End Close & Reconciliation:

Participate in the month-end close process by preparing journal entries and account reconciliations.

Audit Participation:

Support year-end financial review and state sales tax audits, ensuring all documentation is accurate and timely.

Cross-Functional Knowledge:

Develop a deep understanding of Chef Works' business processes, products, and vendor relationships to optimize accounting practices and add strategic value.

Continuous Learning:

Stay updated on industry standards, regulations, and practices affecting Chef Works' financial success.

Participate in educational opportunities and maintain professional networks to enhance job knowledge.

Qualifications & Skills:

Education & Experience:

· Bachelor's degree in Accounting required.

· Minimum of 2 years of experience in general accounting and payroll, with proficiency in:

· Payroll processing for 200+ employees (multi-state, hourly, salary, commissions, bonuses).

· Balance sheet reconciliations and journal entries.

· Financial statement preparation and analysis of budget-to-actual variances.

· Tax accounting and intercompany transactions.

Technical Skills:

· Expertise in payroll software (e.g., Paylocity/Payworks) and financial applications (e.g., ACCPAC / Sage 300).

· Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and intermediate proficiency in Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint.

Personal Attributes:

· Highly detail-oriented with the ability to identify and correct errors.

· Strong problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.

· Able to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet critical deadlines.

· Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively across all levels of the organization.

· Discretion and professionalism when handling confidential information.

Work Environment:

· The ability to work both in a team-oriented and fast-paced environment is essential. This position requires balancing multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines.

Physical Requirements:

· Occasional lifting of items weighing 10 lbs or less.

· Desk work involving extended periods of computer usage.

· Some phone communication.

Why Chef Works?

This is not just a jobâit's a chance to join a company that is passionate about its mission and values innovation in everything it does. You'll have the opportunity to grow your career in accounting and payroll while contributing to a company that is defining the future of the culinary fashion industry.

Compensation details: 30.77-32.69 Hourly Wage

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