Accountant — Remote, California | Pacific Executive Search

Accountant

(Job ID: 1901)

Remote, California

Direct Hire

Software

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Overview

Join a dynamic and rapidly growing digital marketing agency as an Accountant, where your expertise will play a crucial role in driving financial success and strategic decision-making. This fully remote position offers the opportunity to collaborate with a team of innovative professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional service to clients. With a strong emphasis on career growth, you will have the chance to advance into management roles while contributing to a culture that values organization, communication, and adaptability.

Responsibilities

Manage client accounts receivable, including coding invoices, setting up new accounts, reconciling accounts, and overseeing collections to ensure timely payments.
Prepare and maintain accurate financial reports, including monthly balance sheets, income statements, and profit and loss statements, to support strategic planning.
Maintain the general ledger and perform monthly bank reconciliations, ensuring accuracy in financial records and addressing any inquiries from banks.
Verify payment of invoices related to accounts payable, ensuring proper allocation to the appropriate accounts.
Assist external auditors by providing necessary account information and documentation for annual audits.
File required tax forms with federal, state, and local agencies, and manage multi-state tax registrations and filings.
Support month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards in financial reporting.

Qualifications

Must-Have: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field.
Must-Have: Minimum of 5 years of accounting experience, with extensive knowledge of financial and cost accounting principles.
Must-Have: Proficiency in accounting software, including QuickBooks and NetSuite.
Must-Have: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Nice-to-Have: Experience in a creative agency environment and familiarity with project management principles.
Nice-to-Have: Knowledge of financial regulations and standards, including ASC-740 and revenue recognition.
Nice-to-Have: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a remote team setting.

Senior Accountant — Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Senior Accountant do?
A Senior Accountant prepares and reviews journal entries, manages account reconciliations, supports the monthly and quarterly close process, and assists with audit preparation. They often serve as the technical lead on specific areas of the general ledger (fixed assets, revenue, leases) and mentor staff accountants. This role is the foundation for advancing into Accounting Manager, Assistant Controller, and Controller positions.
What experience do employers expect from Senior Accountants?
Typically 3–5 years of progressive accounting experience, with public accounting background (Big 4 or regional CPA firm) strongly preferred. CPA credential or active candidacy is expected for upward-mobile Senior Accountants. Employers also value ERP system experience, proficiency with Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, advanced formulas), and industry-specific knowledge. The best candidates demonstrate ownership mentality—they don't just complete tasks, they understand why the work matters.
Is a CPA required for Senior Accountant positions?
A CPA is not always required at the Senior Accountant level, but it significantly strengthens a candidate's competitiveness and upward mobility. Most companies view CPA certification as a strong indicator of technical commitment and knowledge depth. For candidates targeting Accounting Manager or Controller roles, the CPA becomes effectively mandatory. The most competitive candidates have either earned their CPA or are actively pursuing it.
What is the typical career progression from Senior Accountant?
The standard progression is Senior Accountant → Accounting Supervisor → Accounting Manager → Assistant Controller → Controller. High-performing Senior Accountants with CPA credentials and leadership potential can reach Accounting Manager within 2–3 years. The key inflection point is demonstrating ability beyond technical accounting—taking ownership of processes, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to close efficiency improvements.
How do Big 4 alumni transition into Senior Accountant roles in industry?
Big 4 alumni typically transition to industry Senior Accountant or Accounting Supervisor roles after 2–4 years in public accounting. The adjustment involves shifting from an audit/advisory mindset to an operational ownership mindset—owning specific ledger areas, managing recurring processes, and building relationships with cross-functional teams. Big 4 experience provides strong technical foundations and deadline discipline that translate well to corporate accounting environments.