Company Overview
PCA is a leading North American producer in the paper and packaging industry. As the third-largest containerboard and uncoated freesheet producer in the US and North America respectively, we employ approximately 15,400 people across our US operations.
Our Packaging segment operates seven containerboard mills and around 85 corrugated converting plants, producing and shipping billions of square feet of containerboard and corrugated products annually. Our Boise Paper division manufactures and sells a wide range of white papers.
With $8.4 billion in net sales in 2024, PCA is headquartered in Lake Forest, Illinois. We are committed to providing innovative packaging solutions and exceptional service through strong, collaborative relationships built on trust. Our dedicated team works to understand and meet any packaging need.
Ready to explore the right packaging solution? Connect with our sales team to learn how PCA can customize your corrugated packaging program.
About the Role: Plant Accountant at PCA
As a Fortune 500 company, PCA is a leader in providing innovative packaging and paper solutions. Our corrugated packaging and white paper businesses are dedicated to serving customers with excellence and environmental responsibility. We foster a culture built on People, Customers, and Trust.
As a Plant Accountant, you will be the central point for organizing and coordinating all general accounting activities within the plant. Your role is crucial in maintaining a complete and accurate general ledger, preparing essential financial reports, and analyzing and reporting any financial variances.
Key Responsibilities:
- Ensure accurate and timely completion of monthly, quarterly, and year-end closing processes, including estimates and accruals.
- Resolve accounting discrepancies and irregularities efficiently.
- Maintain strict compliance with financial policies and procedures, including PCA’s SOX 404 Key Controls.
- Manage general accounting activities, including the accurate preparation, maintenance, and reconciliation of general ledger accounts and financial reports (balance sheets, profit-loss statements, capital expenditure reports).
- Develop, maintain, and analyze financial forecasts, preparing periodic reports comparing forecasts to actual costs.
- Manage customer accounts, including credit issuances and collection activities.
- Ensure accurate processing of hourly payroll and related employee functions, adhering to company policies and all state and federal requirements.
- Guide, develop, and train accounting associates, assisting the Plant Controller in supervising their daily activities.
- Prepare, examine, and analyze accounting records, financial statements, and other reports to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with standards.
- Analyze business operations, trends, costs, revenues, and financial obligations to project future finances and provide advice.
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance preferred.
- 3+ years of experience in a business office/accounting department with exposure to general ledger, payroll, and/or accounts payable functions.
- Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly exceptional knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
- Experience with financial systems for invoicing, credit/collections, expense reporting, accounts payable, payroll, and general ledger.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience in the manufacturing sector, specifically within the containerboard and corrugated packaging industry.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Solid understanding of standard financial/accounting procedures, GAAP principles, and internal controls.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage numerous details, deadlines, and requests.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment, prioritizing tasks and managing multiple projects concurrently.
- Strong analytical skills with keen attention to detail for reviewing documents and reports.
- Above-average written and verbal communication skills for diverse audiences.
- Ability to network and build relationships across various experience levels and corporate positions.
- Strong listening, evaluation, and organizational skills.
- Proven ability to work effectively within a team, emphasizing open communication and information sharing.
To be considered, all qualified applicants must apply at Careers.packagingcorp.com.
PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories.