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Accounting Operations Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

This includes preparing day-to-day accounting operations, including Accounts Receivable, general ... Associate's degree & 2 years of directly related experience. * OR * High school diploma / GED & 4 ...

New

This includes preparing day-to-day accounting operations, including Accounts Receivable, general ... Associate's degree & 2 years of directly related experience. * OR * High school diploma / GED & 4 ...

New

Finance Operations Associate

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$100K - $105K/yr

Interface with all areas of the organization (underwriting, operations, originations, capital ... in Accounting * 2-3 years of experience Public Accounting Audit and/or Private Fund background

In this role, you will support core accounting operations across accounts payable, accounts ... Associate degree. * 2+ years of accounting experience. * Proficiency with accounting software, such ...

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Manager, Accounting - Water

Deerfield, IL ยท On-site

$90K - $143K/yr

... overall accounting operations for the Water business unit. It is an exciting business with ... At Fortune Brands, we support the overall health and wellness of our associates by offering ...

Showing results 21-40

Accounting Operations Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$25

$37

How much do accounting operations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for accounting operations associate in Chicago, IL is $25.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $29.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Accounting Operations Associate vs Accounts Payable Clerk?

AspectAccounting Operations AssociateAccounts Payable Clerk
CertificationsTypically requires basic accounting or finance certificationsOften requires similar certifications, such as AP or bookkeeping certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in finance or accounting departments, handling multiple financial processesPrimarily in accounts payable, processing invoices and payments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various industries in finance teamsCommon in companies with large accounts payable functions
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for broader financial operations rolesCompared when focusing on invoice processing and payment tasks

The main difference is that an Accounting Operations Associate handles a broader range of financial processes, including accounts receivable, reconciliation, and reporting, while an Accounts Payable Clerk focuses specifically on processing invoices and payments. Both roles require similar certifications and are found in similar work environments, but their scope and daily tasks differ.

What are some common challenges faced by accounting operations associates, and how can they effectively manage them?

Accounting Operations Associates often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines during month-end closings, handling large volumes of transactions, and ensuring accuracy in data entry and reconciliation. Effectively managing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in accounting software. Collaborating closely with team members and proactively communicating any discrepancies or workload concerns can also help maintain smooth operations and prevent errors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an accounting operations associate, and why are they important?

To excel as an Accounting Operations Associate, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and a relevant degree such as accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks or SAP, along with proficiency in Excel, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate clearly help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate financial records, meeting deadlines, and supporting the overall efficiency of accounting operations.

What does an accounting operations associate do?

An Accounting Operations Associate is responsible for supporting the day-to-day financial activities of an organization, such as processing invoices, reconciling accounts, preparing financial reports, and assisting with audits. They ensure that financial records are accurate and up-to-date, and play a key role in maintaining compliance with accounting policies and procedures. This role often involves working closely with other members of the finance team to support smooth and efficient business operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Accounting Operations jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Accounting Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Accounting Operations Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Accounting Operations Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Accounting Operations Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Accounting Operations Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Accounting Operations Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Accounting Operations Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Accounting Operations Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Experienced Associate - Financial Reporting & Technical Accounting

Cohen & Co.

Deer Park, IL โ€ข On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Are you an accounting professional looking to take the next step in your career? AtCohen & Co, we believe in putting people first and fostering a culture of growth, collaboration, and excellence. As a Experienced Associate on our Office of the CFOteam, you'll work directly with clients across a variety of industries to support complex accounting and financial reporting needs. You'll assist with technical accounting, financial reporting, and day-to-day accounting operations while developing your expertise in diverse business environments. This role offers the opportunity to build strong technical skills, contribute to high-impact client projects, and grow alongside experienced advisors in a collaborative, dynamic setting.

Financial Reporting & Technical Accounting

  • Prepare and review financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, IFRS, or other applicable frameworks.

  • Assist in the implementation of new accounting standards, including ASC 842 (Leases), ASC 606 (Revenue Recognition), and ASC 805 (Business Combinations).

  • Research and draft technical accounting memos addressing complex issues such as equity transactions, debt modifications, and consolidation.

  • Support clients with SEC reporting (Forms 10-Q, 10-K, and S-1 filings), as applicable.

Operational Accounting Support

  • Perform account reconciliations, journal entries, and variance analyses to support monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes.

  • Assist clients with daily accounting activities, including general ledger maintenance, intercompany transactions, and fixed asset accounting.

  • Help clients design and improve accounting processes, including the documentation of policies and procedures.

Client Engagement & Project Delivery

  • Participate in client meetings, helping to identify issues, propose solutions, and deliver high-quality work products.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams-including audit, tax, and consulting-to provide integrated client solutions.

  • Contribute to project planning, budgeting, and execution, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.

Who You Are

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; Master's degree preferred.

  • CPA license or active progress toward CPA eligibility strongly preferred.

  • 1-4 years of experience in public accounting or corporate accounting.

  • Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting principles.

  • Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, Sage Intacct, QuickBooks) and advanced Excel skills.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex accounting concepts clearly.

  • Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced, client-facing environment.

Preferred Experience

  • Exposure to technical accounting research and memo writing.

  • Familiarity with internal controls and SOX compliance.

  • Prior consulting or advisory experience is a plus.

Who We Are

#LifeatCohen

Sure, we like numbers. (But we'll never treat you like one.)

At Cohen & Co our foundational principles offer insight into how we achieve an inclusive, growth-oriented culture that fuels the success of our firm, our clients and our people. In particular, we honor our foundational principle of "great people first" by:

  • Championing the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion by embracing the unique stories, backgrounds, perspectives and ideas that come from our people; and

  • Offering a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewardspackage, which allows each employee to use the benefits that best suits their needs. Our offerings go beyond standard options, including time off outside of your standard PTO to give back to the community, annual discretionary merit increases and bonuses, talent development resources to tap into growth opportunities, and so much more!

Learn More About Us!
  • Discover our Passion, Purpose & Expertise

  • Learn more about our Firm's culture

Estimated Base Range: $60,000 - 70,000

*Base compensation offered to candidates are determined based on factors such as candidate's relevant skillset, experience, licensure, and certifications, as well as job responsibilities, geography, market considerations, and organizational needs. At Cohen & Co, we don't stop at setting ourselves apart by offering competitive base compensation. As part of our 'great people first' foundational principle, our firm offers a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that allows each employee to design a package that best suits their needs and goes beyond standard options, including time off outside of your standard PTO to recharge and give back to the community, annual discretionary merit increases and bonuses, talent development resources to tap into growth opportunities.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity of thought and background to build an inclusive and energized culture and better meet the needs of our clients.

Agency recruiters may not submit unsolicited candidate information or resumes to any Cohen & Co employee without a recruiting services contract first being entered into with the Cohen & Co Talent Acquisition Team; see policy here.