AR/AP Accountant

AR/AP Accountant (Contract-to-Hire)Overview

Our client is a leading manufacturer of high-tech electronic components specializing in circuit protection, power conditioning, and radio frequency technologies. With a strong global presence, they serve critical industries including aerospace, defense, industrial, and automotive markets, to name a few. Known for innovation, quality, and highly engineered solutions, they are a trusted partner in demanding, fast-paced environments.

They are seeking a detail-oriented, organized, and experienced AR/AP Accountant to manage Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable functions while supporting broader accounting operations. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate financial processing, timely collections and vendor payments, and compliance with internal controls and company policies.

The AR/AP Accountant will work cross-functionally with Sales, Purchasing, Supply Chain, Receiving, Quality, and Operations to resolve discrepancies and support month-end close activities.

This is a contract-to-hire opportunity offering up to $80,000 total first-year compensation.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage full-cycle Accounts Receivable, including invoicing, cash application, collections, and timely posting of customer payments
• Conduct daily collection activities and maintain consistent follow-up with customers regarding outstanding balances
• Communicate with customers via phone and email regarding payment status, documenting all interactions
• Partner with Sales to resolve billing discrepancies and AR-related issues
• Reconcile purchase orders, receiving documents, and vendor invoices
• Manage the financial processing of returns in partnership with Quality Assurance
• Oversee Accounts Payable processing, including weekly check runs, manual payments, ACH, wire transfers, and check distribution
• Review and process employee expense reports in accordance with company policy
• Prepare monthly bank reconciliations and AR/AP reconciliations
• Generate aging reports and customer/vendor balance reports for management review
• Support month-end and year-end close activities, including journal entries and account reconciliations
• Identify unrecorded liabilities at month-end, including uninvoiced receipts, to ensure accurate financial reporting
• Manage vendor prepayment amortization schedules
• Maintain sales and use tax resale certificates
• Maintain customer and vendor master data, including payment terms and banking details
• Manage vendor W-9 documentation and year-end 1099 reporting
• Identify opportunities to improve and streamline AR/AP processes
• Assist with audits by preparing schedules and supporting documentation
• Collaborate cross-functionally to resolve accounting discrepancies and operational issues

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 3–5 years of accounting experience with strong AR/AP responsibility
• Experience with accounting software preferably QuickBooks/NetSuite, or similar ERP systems
• Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables and lookups
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills
• High level of accountability, ownership, and follow-through

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in Mandarin Chinese is a plus, but not required
• Experience in private equity-backed or fast-paced manufacturing environments
• Industry experience in electronics, semiconductors, defense, or industrial manufacturing preferred

Benefits

• Onsite role based in San Diego, CA
• Competitive compensation based on experience, skills, and qualifications
• Benefits for eligible employees include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and 401(k) with company match

Pay: $36.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person