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Newmeyer & Dillion LLP

Senior Accounting Specialist

Newmeyer & Dillion LLP, Newport Beach, California, us, 92659

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Job Title:

Senior Accounting Specialist Reports To:

Controller Location:

Newport Beach, CA

Position Summary The Senior Accounting Specialist is a hands-on role that provides critical support to the Controller and contributes to the accuracy and integrity of the firm's financial operations. This role is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of financial data, supporting month-end close, and contributing to process improvements. To be successful, the Senior Accounting Specialist must develop a working knowledge of all core functions within the department including accounts payable, accounts receivable, trust accounting, billing, and collections and be capable of stepping in to assist or provide coverage in any of these areas when needed. While not a management role, this is a senior-level position that supports departmental leadership and may evolve based on performance and organizational needs.

Key Responsibilities

Cross-Functional Departmental Support

Actively cross-train in all major functions within the Accounting Department

Accounts Payable (AP) – invoice coding, vendor setup, payment processing

Accounts Receivable (AR) – cash application, client statements, aging reports

Trust Accounting – reconciliation, compliance with trust rules and reporting

Billing & Collections – billing guidelines, eBilling systems, billing audits

Provide backup support during absences or peak periods

Maintain a high-level understanding of departmental workflows to ensure continuity and coverage

Core Accounting Functions

Prepare daily cash reports

Prepare and review journal entries, general ledger account reconciliations, and monthly close activities

Analyze variances in financial statements and assist with financial statement preparation

Assist with year-end audits and ensure adherence to accounting standards and internal controls

Accounts Payable and Receivable

Will assume responsibility over AP/AR transaction review, coding accuracy, and approval workflows as proficiency in departmental functions is demonstrated

Provide guidance to junior team members and resolve complex invoice or payment issues

Review and monitor aging reports and help support collections

Process Improvement & Compliance

Participate in the review and optimization of accounting workflows

Recommend efficiency improvements in reporting, reconciliations, or financial systems

Assist with compliance documentation and internal process audits

Team Support and Leadership Readiness

Act as a resource and mentor to less experienced staff

Participate in training, team meetings, and initiatives that support professional growth

What You'll Need

Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience, ideally in a law firm or professional services setting

Solid understanding of accounting principles and internal controls

High proficiency in accounting systems and Microsoft Excel; familiarity with Aderant or comparable systems preferred

Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills

Client-service mindset and attention to detail

Professional Growth Potential This role offers visibility and opportunity for advancement. A future promotion to Accounting Manager may be considered based on sustained performance, technical skills, leadership capabilities, and the firm's staffing needs. Candidates are expected to demonstrate initiative, judgment, and an ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues across departments.

Physical Environment and Working Conditions The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

A normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise, dust and temperature extremes

This position routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, multi-function devices (copy, fax and scanning machines), and filing cabinets

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; sit; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms

Some light lifting of 15 pounds or less is required on a regular basis

Work may occasionally require more than 40 hours per week to complete the essential duties and primary responsibilities of the position

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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