Accounting Associate

**Accounting Associate [Remote, Full-time]** We are seeking a detail-oriented, proactive, and thrive on keeping financial operations running smoothly, especially when it comes to payroll processing and general accounting. Accuracy is wildly important to you, and you take pride in ensuring compliance and getting it right the first time. You're energized by being a go-to resource for everything from overseeing the payroll process to assisting the Finance team with month-end close and reporting activities. You have a strong foundation in accounting principles, excellent analytical skills, and the opportunity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment gets you excited POSITION DETAILS Structured as a remote full-time, salaried position. This position will report to the Assistant Controller. We have been a 100% remote company since the beginning! This position is eligible for remote work from the following locations: USA. ## Who We Are AOE is an art teacher’s partner for life. We provide art-specific professional development, engaging curriculum, relevant resources, and rigorous master’s degree programs. MISSION: We grow amazing teachers by providing rigorous, relevant, and engaging learning at every stage of their career. VALUES: - Artistry: Ignite creativity and inspire growth through curiosity - Connection: Unite, grow, and thrive - Impact: A measured effort to do good and do well ## The Details ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - Run Payroll Like Clockwork: Process payroll twice per month (15th and 30th), ensuring accuracy in wages, bonuses, commissions, tax withholdings, and timesheets. Review and resolve any discrepancies before payroll is finalized. - Administer Employee Benefits: Manage employee benefits, including HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life insurance programs, ensuring accurate deductions, timely reporting, and providing support to employees with benefit-related questions. - Reconciliation & Reporting: Reconcile payroll accounts, prepare journal entries, and generate reports that provide Finance leadership with clear and actionable insights. - Keep Tax and Compliance Audit-Ready: Partner with the Finance team to ensure timely payroll tax filings, maintain accurate payroll records, and ensure compliance to support internal and external audits. - Partner with Team & Culture: Collaborate closely with the Team & Culture team on employee data updates, payroll-related inquiries, and processes that impact both people and compensation. - Support Month-End Close: Assist the Finance team with month-end close activities, including reconciliations, financial reporting, and general ledger maintenance. - Cash Management & Special Projects: Support cash management processes and contribute to audits, ad-hoc reporting, and other finance initiatives that enhance operational efficiency as the company grows. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES - Working knowledge of payroll processes, tax regulations, and basic accounting principles - Experience with payroll and banking systems (Paycom preferred, not required) - Proficiency in Google Sheets, including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and data analysis - Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify and resolve discrepancies - Effective communication skills and the ability to handle confidential information responsibly ## Position Requirements While we have outlined key requirements for this role, we recognize that not all candidates will meet every qualification. We encourage individuals who believe they have the relevant skills and experience to apply, even if they do not fully meet each requirement listed. EXPERIENCE - At least 1-3 years of experience in finance, accounting, or payroll with hands-on exposure to payroll, AR/AP, QuickBooks and monthly closes. EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field OTHER REQUIREMENTS - Ability to view computer screens for significant periods of time. The Art of Education University is an online university there…