Accounting Specialist

SUMMARY:   We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized Accounting Specialist to join our dynamic accounting team. In this role, you will primarily support Accounts Receivable functions. You will also provide backup support across the department, assist with documenting processes and work on special projects. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative environment, follows established procedures and can balance routine responsibilities with project-based work.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Process monthly sales tax returns for multiple states.
• Maintain licensing for multiple distribution centers.
• Process ACH/EFT/Credit Card Transactions.
• Provide sales staff accurate forms for setting up new customers including running financial backgrounds.
• Review accuracy of invoices, credits, discounts, debt information.
• Apply funds to specific customer accounts.
• Point of contact for customer/sales with questions regarding past due, statements, pricing issues.
• Provide the customer/sales or supervisors invoices, payment remittance, statements with specific information to properly reconcile with customer.
• Organize customer files, document, file, archive all detailed information.
• Review past due, provide timelines to the sales staff to ensure customer is in terms. Work with the Credit Manager to change terms as directed.
• Send past due/over 90 day reports weekly to appropriate sales staff.
• Occasionally process/pay invoices and prepare checks.
• Establishes and maintains effective work relationships within the department, the Company, and the community; and maintains the professional competence, knowledge, and skill necessary for the satisfactory performance of all assigned responsibilities.
• Poses no direct threat to the health or safety of himself/herself, of others, or to property. Defined as a significant risk of substantial harm that cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by reasonable accommodation.
• Requires regular attendance to perform essential elements as contained herein between the assigned start and end times for work.
• Performs such individual assignments as management may direct.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Education

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• Two Year Accounting Degree preferred

Preferred Experience

• Accounts Payable or Accounts Receivable
• Sales tax processing

Skills

• Must have proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel as well as the ability to quickly learn Upper Lakes Foods’ software system
• Must have a positive attitude and strong interpersonal skills
• Must possess strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong desire for continued growth and learning

Certification, Licenses, Registrations

• Microsoft Office-Excel, Word, Outlook

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION & WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Typical Office environment, computers, copier, fax machine, etc.
• Sitting standing 85%, walking 15%, overhead shelves, file cabinets, drawers, occasional warehouse environment, moderate noise level.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

ABOUT UPPER LAKES FOODS

Upper Lakes Foods, Inc. is the largest independent, wholesale food distributor in Minnesota.  The company has three facilities located in Cloquet, MN, Northfield, MN and Janesville, WI.  We distribute food throughout the Upper Midwest.  Upper Lakes Foods specializes in serving foodservice operators such as independent restaurants, assisted living facilities, schools, and national and regional foodservice chain accounts with a strong focus on customer service. Simply put, the mission is to build value for each customer, employee, supplier and community we serve by bringing the best; the best products, best people and best ideas.

CORE VALUES

• Strong Work Ethic – We believe in the value of hard work, perseverance and consistency of character.
• Positive Attitude – We believe in encouraging a flexible, agreeable and well-adjusted work existence that promotes successful outcomes.
• Integrity – We believe in honesty, truthfulness and consistency of our actions.
• Team Work – We believe that work done by several individuals combined insures excellence of quality, safety and service.
• Professional Appearance – We believe in maintaining an appearance that promotes good hygiene, neatness and appropriate business dress.
• Respectful Interaction – We believe in creating a workplace where employees are treated fairly in a safe and positive environment.

“We are an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.”