At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial operations and lead budgeting in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join AMBAC International, a century-old employee-owned precision manufacturing leader.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, health benefits, and relocation assistance for the right candidate.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values teamwork and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Grow into a Controller role while making a real impact on financial operations.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in accounting and 4+ years of relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 € per year.
Full‑time / On‑site, Elgin, SC. Relocation available for the right candidate.
About AMBAC International
AMBAC International is a 100‑year‑old, employee‑owned precision manufacturing company. We’re best known for precision fuel injection systems for heavy‑duty diesel engines. We practice the Great Game of Business, with open books, shared scoreboards, and a team that understands how the company makes money.
The Role
We’re hiring a Staff Accountant to help run financial operations in a government contracting environment. This is a Controller‑track role. You will start by owning the fundamentals alongside our current Controller, who will be your mentor. You will also be expected to understand why the numbers matter, connect them to the business, and over time lead and teach the numbers to others. Reports to: Controller initially, with a direct line to the President as you grow into the role.
What You’ll Do
- Own month‑end and year‑end close
- Prepare and record journal entries: accruals, prepaids, adjustments
- Reconcile general ledger accounts and resolve discrepancies
- Support AP, AR, and payroll operations
- Handle inventory accounting, standard costing, and variance analysis
- Ensure GAAP compliance and support internal, external, and DCAA audits
- Prepare financial reports and partner on variance analysis
- Help maintain and improve internal controls
- Translate shop‑floor activity into financial insight the operations team can actually use
- Contribute to our GGOB huddles: scoreboards, forecasts, and the weekly story the numbers tell
As you grow
- Lead budgeting and forecasting with department heads
- Develop and refine the financial scoreboards that run our GGOB system
- Document accounting policies and build stronger internal controls
- Supervise and develop junior accounting staff
- Move into full Controller responsibility: financial oversight, strategic analysis, and direct reporting to the President
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance
- 4+ years of accounting experience, manufacturing strongly preferred
- Strong grasp of GAAP and general ledger management
- Comfortable in ERP systems; Excel proficiency well beyond basic formulas
- Audit or compliance‑focused experience
- Accurate and efficient, with attention to detail that doesn’t slow you down
Preferred
- Defense, aerospace, or government contracting experience
- Familiarity with OEM and/or FAR, CAS operations
- Job shop, contract manufacturing, or mixed‑revenue environments
- Cost accounting, inventory valuation, or standard costing exposure
- Familiarity with Great Game of Business or open‑book management
Who You Are
- Intellectually curious about why the business works the way it does
- Comfortable asking questions and flagging problems early
- Willing to teach and develop the team around
- Aspired to grow into something bigger
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience (range shared in first conversation)
- ESOP and 401K
- Health, dental, and vision
- PTO and paid holidays
- Continuing education support
- Relocation assistance available for the right candidate
AMBAC International is an equal opportunity employer.
Senior Staff Accountant - Defense and Manufacturing in Elgin employer: AMBAC International
AMBAC International is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and transparent work culture, where employees are empowered through the Great Game of Business philosophy. Located in Elgin, SC, we offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits including ESOP and 401K, and ample opportunities for professional growth as you progress towards a Controller role under the mentorship of experienced leaders. Join us to be part of a century-old employee-owned company that values your contributions and supports your career development in the dynamic field of precision manufacturing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Staff Accountant - Defense and Manufacturing in Elgin
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the accounting and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into AMBAC International’s culture and values. Understand their approach to the Great Game of Business and think about how you can contribute to that environment. Tailor your responses to show you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the company too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your financial storytelling skills! Be ready to explain how your past experiences connect to the numbers and how they impact business decisions. This will help you stand out as someone who can translate complex data into actionable insights.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the AMBAC team. Let’s get you that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Staff Accountant - Defense and Manufacturing in Elgin
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Senior Staff Accountant role. Highlight your accounting experience, especially in manufacturing or government contracting, to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you a great candidate. Don’t forget to mention your familiarity with GAAP and any relevant ERP systems.
Showcase Your Numbers Skills:Since this role involves a lot of financial operations, be sure to highlight your experience with month-end closes, journal entries, and reconciliations. We want to see that you understand the numbers and can connect them to business insights.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at AMBAC International
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Staff Accountant, you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of financial principles. Brush up on GAAP and be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles, especially in manufacturing or government contracting environments.
✨Connect the Dots
Prepare to explain how financial data impacts business decisions. Think about examples where your insights led to improvements or cost savings. This shows that you not only understand the numbers but also their significance in driving business success.
✨Show Your Curiosity
AMBAC values intellectual curiosity, so come prepared with questions about their operations and the Great Game of Business. This will show your interest in the company and your willingness to learn and grow within the role.
✨Be Ready to Teach
Since part of your role will involve mentoring junior staff, think about how you would explain complex accounting concepts in simple terms. Share examples of how you've successfully trained others in the past to highlight your leadership potential.
