Director of Accounting - On site

About SmartStop Self Storage

SmartStop® Self Storage (NYSE: SMA) is one of the largest self-storage operators in North America and a publicly traded real estate investment trust. Headquartered in Ladera Ranch, California, SmartStop owns or manages more than 460 self-storage properties across 35 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., and Canada, comprising over 270,000 units and more than 35 million rentable square feet. Our fully integrated team of more than 1,000 self-storage professionals is dedicated to delivering an exceptional customer experience and driving long-term value for our customers, investors, and communities. SmartStop’s commitment to service excellence and workplace culture has been recognized with multiple industry honors, including being named to Newsweek’s Best Customer Service Award (2021, 2023, and 2024), earning the Reputation 800 Award (2022-2023), and being recognized as a Top Workplace in Orange County (2022-2024), an award based entirely on employee feedback regarding our culture, leadership, and values.

About the Role

Reporting to the Controller, the Director of Accounting is responsible for overseeing all accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls across the real estate portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Leads, mentors, and develops accounting professionals, fostering a culture of accountability and growth
• Optimizes and maintains accounting systems and software
• Identifies and implements process improvements to increase efficiency and scalability
• Oversees the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes to ensure timely and accurate financial statements
• Prepares and reviews consolidated financial reports across multiple self-storage properties and entities
• Maintains compliance with GAAP and applicable real estate accounting standards
• Manages and reviews balance sheet reconciliations, journal entries, and intercompany transactions
• Monitors tenant billing, collections, and delinquency processes
• Reviews and approves vendor payments, property-level expenses, and capital expenditures
• Assists with the budgeting process in collaboration with Operations, Acquisitions, and Property Management teams
• Assists with variance analyses and KPI reporting for portfolio performance
• Designs, implements, and monitors internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure financial integrity
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field required
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership role
• Experience in real estate/REIT, self-storage, or property management accounting strongly preferred
• Proficiency in property management or accounting software
• Advanced Excel skills; ability to build and maintain complex financial models
• In-depth knowledge of accounting principles and standards, corporate taxation, internal controls, and cash management

Skills

• Exceptional math and analytical skills
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to discuss accounting concepts at all levels within the organization
• Attentiveness to detail
• Excellent leadership skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• High level of integrity and professional ethics

Pay

Starting at $140,000 depending on experience, plus an annual discretionary bonus.

Schedule

100% on-site at our Ladera Ranch, CA headquarters.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health insurance including medical, dental, and vision
• Life and disability insurances
• Paid time off
• Generous holiday schedule
• 401(k) matching with no waiting period
• Employee assistance program
• Referral program
• Great growth potential