Lead Accountant

About the role

The primary purpose of this position is to help maintain accurate accounting and ratemaking records with strong supporting documentation with minimal supervision for month-end close and regulatory filings for the U.S. Utilities. This role requires strong analytical skills and sound judgment, as the candidate will make independent decisions while performing accounting activities where only general guidelines or procedures are available. The job interrelates with other groups within the accounting department and other departments within AES, such as Regulatory Affairs, Revenue Accounting, Financial Planning and Analysis, and Financial Reporting. This position offers regular exposure to company leadership and opportunities for professional growth.

Responsibilities

• Assist with all regulatory accounting functions for the US Utilities businesses
• Record, classify and summarize financial transactions in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, i.e. journal entries and reconciliation reports
• Prepare and deliver audit support documentation on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis
• Plan, organize and prioritize work assignments to meet required deadlines
• Compile, analyze and review financial information in the preparation of reports, including schedules and testimony for ratemaking matters
• Develop, prepare, and review reports on a regular monthly, quarterly and/or annual basis to meet business needs
• Analyze, reconcile and evaluate the accuracy of general ledger accounting details and ensures the amounts are proper and classified correctly
• Monitor compliance with AES policies, internal controls, and corporate accounting standards
• Identify accounting and control issues, evaluate root causes, and implement timely resolutions
• Propose improvement to the existing processes
• Perform ad hoc accounting analyses and tasks as requested by management
• Coordinate with internal and external auditors to resolve accounting and control matters throughout the year
• Build and maintain strong working relationships across finance, accounting, and other business functions

Requirements

• BS in Accounting from an accredited college and/or university
• 3-4 years of accounting experience
• Experience with month end accounting close process
• In-depth knowledge of US GAAP
• Strong computer and systems skills
• Strong interpersonal skills to interface with teams within the accounting and business operational
• Exceptional organizational and analytical skills and oral and written communication skills
• Results oriented, self-motivated, and able to work with limited direct supervision and as part of a team
• Willingness to testify before the PUCO and IURC
• Excellent Microsoft Excel skills
• Ability to work effectively both as a team member and independently

Preferred qualifications

• Experience in SAP ERP system strongly preferred
• CPA's will be given preference
• Prior audit experience within a public accounting firm strongly preferred
• Experience in a regulated business
• Familiarity with the FERC Uniform System of Accounts as well as US utility industry accounting practices