Automotive Accounting Specialist - job 1 of 2

As an Automotive Accounting Specialist at EchoPark Automotive, your main responsibility will be to manage the accounts payable process. This involves reviewing and processing invoices, acting as a point of contact for vendor inquiries, and supporting month-end close activities. You'll also analyze expense variances and perform bank reconciliations, making your role crucial for the financial health of the dealership.

Ideal candidates for the Automotive Accounting Specialist role at EchoPark Automotive should possess general accounting experience and be proficient in using MS Excel. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary to navigate vendor relations and collaborate effectively with team members. While not required, experience in the automotive sector will be considered a valuable asset.

EchoPark Automotive offers a robust benefits package to Automotive Accounting Specialists, including competitive hourly pay between $23-$25, health, dental, and vision insurance, and a 401k plan featuring a 4% company match. Additionally, you'll enjoy paid vacation and access to leadership development programs in a friendly, casual work environment.

The month-end close process for the Automotive Accounting Specialist at EchoPark Automotive involves several key tasks such as performing balance sheet reconciliations, producing work papers for financial reporting, and analyzing monthly bank activity. You'll be responsible for ensuring that all financial metrics are accurately reported, contributing to the overall financial integrity of the dealership.

The work environment for an Automotive Accounting Specialist at EchoPark Automotive is collaborative and supportive. Employees are encouraged to share ideas and grow together as the company evolves. A casual dress code and a positive work atmosphere make this position an attractive opportunity for professionals seeking a friendly and dynamic workplace.

When answering this question, discuss your previous roles that involved accounts payable, highlighting specific tasks such as invoice processing, vendor communication, and reconciliation. Share any standout achievements and emphasize your attention to detail and organization skills.

For this question, list the accounting software you've worked with, explaining how you utilized them for tasks like reporting, reconciliation, or managing invoices. Be specific about any software that is widely used in the automotive industry to show relevant experience.

Discuss your time management strategies, such as creating to-do lists or leveraging calendar tools to keep track of deadlines. Emphasize the importance of communication with teammates to ensure everyone is aligned and tasks are completed efficiently.

Use the STAR method to share a specific example of a discrepancy you encountered, detailing the situation, your approach to resolving it, and the outcome. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and problem-solving abilities relevant to the Automotive Accounting Specialist role.

Talk about your processes for double-checking figures, maintaining clear records, and cross-referencing data when preparing reports. Mention how these practices contribute to your commitment to financial prudence, which is vital for a role like the Accounting Specialist at EchoPark Automotive.

Detail your familiarity with SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley Act) compliance, explaining what SOX controls you have worked with, and how you ensured adherence to those standards. This knowledge is critical for the Automotive Accounting Specialist position.

Select an experience where you worked closely with different departments, articulating your role in the collaboration and how it benefited the organization. This shows your ability to function as a team player, vital for the Automotive Accounting Specialist role.

Discuss your approach to managing vendor relationships, such as regular communication, timely payments, and addressing any issues proactively. Highlight how these practices help maintain productive partnerships, which is crucial in the accounts payable function.

Emphasize your commitment to professional development through continuous education, attending workshops, or following relevant industry publications. Staying informed about changes in regulations will demonstrate your proactive approach to compliance as an Automotive Accounting Specialist.

Share your opinion on the role of accuracy, transparency, and ethical standards in maintaining financial integrity. Discuss how these factors relate to your work as an Automotive Accounting Specialist at EchoPark Automotive, ensuring trust and stability within the organization.