Accounting Manager, Chandler

Accounting Manager
Located onsite in Chandler, AZ, we are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Accounting Manager to join our Finance/Accounting organization.
This is a hands-on role reporting to the Assistant Controller.
This role is responsible for overseeing critical accounting functions, ensuring compliance with U.S. GAAP, and supporting the Assistant Controller in managing the month-end close, balance sheet account reconciliations and variance analysis, compliance support, and government contract accounting support.
This position serves as the functional lead over the senior and junior accountants, providing guidance, reviewing work, and driving process improvements.
The Accounting Lead plays a key role in complex accounting areas, technical accounting matters, government contracting, corporate SEC reporting support, and external audit processes, while strengthening internal controls within a highly regulated environment.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Oversight
Act as the day-to-day lead for the accounting function, providing guidance and oversight to senior and junior accountants
Review journal entries, reconciliations, and financial deliverables for accuracy and completeness
Support the Assistant Controller in managing workloads, priorities, and deadlines
Coach and mentor junior team members, ensuring development and adherence to best practices
Financial Close & Reporting
Coordinate and prepare month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes
Ensure timely and financial reporting in accordance with U.S. GAAP and corporate requirements
Review and analyze financial statements, identifying key variances and trends
Manage intercompany transactions and ensure proper consolidation reporting
Manufacturing & Cost Accounting
Oversee project cost structure, updates, and variance analysis
Review inventory valuation, reserves, and physical inventory processes
Partner with finance team to improve cost accuracy, reporting transparency, and margin performance
Fixed Assets & Capital Projects
Oversee accounting for capital expenditures, including CIP and asset capitalization
Review and approve asset classifications and depreciation methodologies
Ensure compliance with capitalization policies and audit requirements
ERP & Process Improvement
Support ERP-related accounting initiatives, including system implementations and optimizations
Drive automation and process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy
Business Partnering
Collaborate closely with finance, operations, and various corporate teams
Provide insights into financial performance and operational drivers
Support budgeting, forecasting, and strategic initiatives
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA preferred
Minimum 6 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in manufacturing or defense contract industries
Prior experience in a lead or supervisory role required
Experience in a subsidiary of a publicly traded company highly preferred
Technical Skills
Strong expertise in U.S. GAAP and technical accounting
Deep understanding of cost accounting and inventory in a manufacturing environment
Strong knowledge of SOX compliance and internal controls
Proficiency with ERP systems (Oracle Fusion preferred) and strong Excel skills
Key Competencies
Effective communication with both finance and non-finance stakeholders
High attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and compliance
Proactive mindset with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment
Ideal Candidate Attributes
Hands-on, execution-driven, and energized by "rolling up their sleeves" to get the work done
Detail-oriented and committed to producing high-quality, accurate results
Thrives in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities
Curious, adaptable, and excited by opportunities to learn new systems and processes
Collaborative mindset - enjoys working with peers and cross-functional partners
Self-starter who takes initiative and ownership of tasks