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Staff Accountant

The Staff Accountant’s responsibilities include tasks necessary to properly document the financial position of the company and work with all data to reconcile any information from subsidiary income or expense modules.
 

Essential Functions (not all inclusive):

  • Assist with the monthly close process and with the preparation and analysis of the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial information
  • Prepare journal entries and accruals, both recurring and non-recurring
  • Monthly reconciliation of general ledger accounts
  • Bank Reconciliations
  • Preparation of supporting documentation for financial statements
  • Preparation of monthly / quarterly reports for management
  • Research and provide conclusions on technical accounting issues
  • Prepare other ad hoc reports as required

About Music & Arts
Music & Arts embodies the world of creativity and music by encouraging our teammates to find their own individual sound. We strive to create lifelong musicians and make a difference in the world by enabling musicians and non-musicians alike to experience the almost indescribable happiness that comes from playing an instrument. We believe in putting our customers first, engaging with respect and integrity and fulfilling our mission with passion.

The first Music & Arts was located in a small house in Bethesda, MD and run by founder Benjamin O'Brien. When Music & Arts opened its doors in 1952, we offered printed music, music lessons, dance lessons, and art supplies. Ben decided shortly after opening his business that he wanted to focus on music to better serve his customers -- a decision that remains intact to this day.

Since the 1990's, Music & Arts has expanded nationwide through organic growth and a series of acquisitions and mergers with other music dealers. In 2005, Music & Arts joined forces with American Music to become the largest band and orchestra instrument retailer in the United States. Based in Frederick, MD, Music & Arts is now part of the Guitar Center enterprise and comprises 225+ retail stores, 200+ educational representatives, and 250+ affiliate locations.

To join our band, you'll need the following experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Business/Accounting
  • 2-3 years of related experience in general accounting role, retail accounting is a plus
  • Strong attention to detail while working efficiently and meeting deadlines
  • Strong interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work with all levels of management and interdepartmentally
  • Intermediate/Advanced Excel user
  • Experience with Microsoft Dynamics and/or Peoplesoft strongly recommended
  • Comfortable working in a high volume fast -paced environment 
  • Team player attitude with proven people skills

Why Guitar Center? Here's just some of the rewards:

For our employees who are musicians we offer the unique opportunity of gig leave--take time off to share your music with the world and return to your job after your tour! Guitar Center offers robust benefits and perks, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K plus company match, mental health support, paid sick/holiday/vacation time, employee discount program, and tuition reimbursement options.

Pay Rate: $60,000 - $65,000/yr depending on background and experience.

The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, and other factors. The pay range(s) listed are provided in compliance with state specific laws. Pay ranges may be different in other locations.

With a career at Guitar Center, you become part of the world's largest multichannel musical instrument retailer. Whether at our Stores, Contact Centers, Distribution Centers, or Support Center, Guitar Center employees have a common goal: to help people find their sound and fill the world with more music.

Love this gig and want to apply?

Send your resume and cover letter today along with salary expectations!

Music & Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides fair and equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status prohibited under Federal, State, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job ‐ related requirements.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website, you may request a reasonable accommodation to express interest in a specific opening. You can request reasonable accommodation by calling 1‐818-735-8800 ext. 2862 or by sending an email to recruiting@guitarcenter.com.

Average salary estimate

$62500 / YEARLY (est.)
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$60000K
$65000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Staff Accountant, Music and Arts

If you're passionate about numbers and music, then the Staff Accountant position at Music & Arts in Frederick County, MD is where you need to be! As a key player in our financial team, your role will be vital in ensuring that we maintain an accurate and thorough documentation of our financial standing. You will assist with the monthly close process and delve into the preparation and analysis of crucial financial reports—covering everything from monthly to annual insights. You’ll be responsible for preparing journal entries, handling bank reconciliations, and conducting monthly reconciliations of general ledger accounts, all while ensuring compliance and accuracy. We're looking for someone who is not just skilled at accounting, but also brings a team player attitude and strong communication skills to the table. As part of Music & Arts, you'll be immersed in a dynamic environment where your accounting expertise will make a genuine impact on our mission to enhance the musical journey of countless individuals. With a robust benefits package including medical, dental, and even gig leave for musician employees, we strive to take care of our team just as we care for our customers. Join us in filling the world with music while advancing your career within an established and friendly organization!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Staff Accountant Role at Music and Arts
What are the main responsibilities of a Staff Accountant at Music & Arts?

As a Staff Accountant at Music & Arts, you'll handle vital responsibilities such as preparing journal entries, managing month-end close processes, and reconciling general ledger accounts. Your skill in preparing financial reports will also be crucial, alongside researching technical accounting issues and ensuring accurate financial statements.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Staff Accountant position at Music & Arts?

To apply for the Staff Accountant position at Music & Arts, you need a bachelor's degree in Business or Accounting and ideally 2-3 years of relevant accounting experience. Proficiency in Excel and familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics or Peoplesoft will be beneficial, plus a keen attention to detail is essential.

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What software skills are required for the Staff Accountant role at Music & Arts?

Candidates for the Staff Accountant position at Music & Arts should be intermediate to advanced users of Excel. Experience with accounting software such as Microsoft Dynamics and Peoplesoft is strongly recommended to effectively manage financial data and reporting.

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Is previous retail accounting experience important for the Staff Accountant role at Music & Arts?

Yes, while not mandatory, previous retail accounting experience is a plus for the Staff Accountant role at Music & Arts. It helps in understanding the specific financial nuances within the retail space, especially given our focus on music-related products.

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What does the career growth look like for a Staff Accountant at Music & Arts?

A career as a Staff Accountant at Music & Arts opens various growth opportunities within the company. As you gain experience and demonstrate your skills, you can progress to senior accounting roles or move into areas such as financial analysis or management within our thriving organization.

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Common Interview Questions for Staff Accountant
Can you describe your experience with month-end closing processes?

Certainly! When answering this question, emphasize your familiarity with the steps involved in month-end closing, such as journal entries, reconciliations, and ensuring all data integrity. Share specific examples from previous roles that illustrate your ability to meet deadlines and handle pressures during busy periods.

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How do you ensure accuracy in your financial reports?

To ensure accuracy in financial reports, I implement a multi-step review process for all data entries and reconciliations. This includes cross-checking figures, collaborating with team members for validation, and utilizing accounting software features to minimize human error, ensuring all outputs are precise.

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What accounting software are you familiar with?

During the interview, mention any accounting software you have used, highlighting your proficiency in Microsoft Dynamics or Peoplesoft if applicable. Explain how your experience with Excel has helped you in data analysis and reporting, which is crucial for the Staff Accountant role.

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How do you prioritize your tasks during high volume periods?

I prioritize tasks by assessing deadlines, determining the impact of each task, and using tools like to-do lists or project management software to stay organized. This strategy helps me remain focused and efficient even during peak periods such as month-end close.

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Describe a time you had to research a technical accounting issue.

Discuss a specific instance where you encountered a technical accounting issue, explaining your research methods, decision-making process, and how you arrived at a solution. This shows your problem-solving skills and ability to handle complexity, key traits for a Staff Accountant.

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What role does communication play in your accounting work?

Effective communication is essential in accounting roles. It ensures clear collaboration with colleagues across departments, aids in presenting financial information to management accurately, and helps in fostering a team environment. Share how you've leveraged communication in your past roles.

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Can you explain the importance of internal controls?

In answering this question, emphasize the role of internal controls in safeguarding assets and ensuring accurate financial reporting. Discuss how they prevent errors, reduce risks, and form the backbone of reliable accounting practices, aligning well with the standards Music & Arts upholds.

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How do you approach preparing for audits?

When preparing for audits, I approach the task methodically by ensuring all documentation, reconciliations, and reports are organized and readily accessible. I often run pre-audit checks to identify and address potential issues beforehand, creating a smoother audit experience.

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What do you love about being an accountant?

In your response, express your passion for numbers, problem-solving, and the satisfaction that comes from creating transparency in financial matters. You could also mention the critical role accountants play in guiding business decisions, which resonates well with Music & Arts’ mission.

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What do you find most challenging about accounting work?

Discuss aspects like navigating complex regulations or tight deadlines but frame them positively. Emphasize how these challenges motivate you to develop your skills and pursue continuous improvement, which is vital in the dynamic environment of Music & Arts.

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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 28, 2025

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