Accountant I

WHY Jewelers Mutual:

We are a financially secure, exceptionally positioned, and intellectually curious company driven by our core values of Agility, Accountability and Relevancy!  We continue to raise the tide of the jewelry industry we’ve served since 1913 through our innovative people, our unyielding customer commitment, and evolution of our products and services to be the most trusted advisor to all we serve. 

With a generous benefits package, office locations throughout the United States, and a mantra of “making your mark today”, consider evolving your career and shining bright with Jewelers Mutual Group!     

SUMMARY

The Accountant I – compliance focus is accountable for assigned financial compliance including premium tax and form filings, assisting with federal and state tax provisions and estimates, and owning IRS Form 1099 process and preparation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

•  Prepare and submit assigned monthly, quarterly, and annual state premium tax, form filings, municipal tax, etc. in compliance with local, state, and federal tax law
•  Execute premium tax, form, income tax, and other miscellaneous compliance payments to respective taxing authority upon appropriate approval
•  Prepare journal entries related to compliance items including, but not limited to, income tax, premium tax, municipal tax, and guarantee funds
•  Investigate, communicate, and correct errors in any financial compliance filings
•  Compile quarterly and annual Canadian branch financial reporting forms
•  Assist in the preparation of quarterly tax provisions/estimates and booking of applicable journal entries
•  Own the process and preparation of Form 1099 for applicable individuals and entities, adhering to IRS guidelines and regulations. Verify the accuracy of information, including TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number) and payment amounts. Communicate with vendors, contractors, and internal teams to resolve any issues related to 1099 reporting.
• Prepare monthly balance sheet account reconciliations for tax and compliance accounts including researching and documenting un-reconciled balances and other variances from expectations and, if applicable, prepare correcting journal entries
• Organize, prioritize, and address messages in compliance inboxes in a timely manner
•  Collaborate with external tax consultants to ensure timely and accurate filings of all income tax returns
•  Prepare and organize financial information requests for external tax consultants
•  Collaborate with external tax consultants on new activities and issues
• Assist in research of financial compliance requirements for new entities or lines of business
• Identify and implement compliance improvement opportunities
• Provide support and assistance during audits by tax authorities and regulators
• Complete miscellaneous tax compliance tasks
• Assist with accounting and financial reporting as well as expense report reviews
• Verify and add new vendors to accounting software and process various updates
• Stay current with changes in tax regulations and legislation through ongoing professional development and training
• Participate in department and strategic corporate project teams as requested

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree (B. A.) in Finance or Accounting.
• 0 - 2 years related experience. (Or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Property/casualty insurance background and jewelry industry experience are helpful.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word).
• Experience with accounting and financial software desired
• Must be detail oriented.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

None.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or touch objects or controls; and talk or hear.