Inventory Accountant

Who We Are

Garden Trends Inc. (GTI), the parent company of Harris Seeds is a progressive data-driven company with established roots in Rochester, NY.  Established in 1879, GTI has earned an outstanding reputation for operational excellence, high-quality products, and unparalleled customer service. Through a portfolio of respected companies and brands, such as Harris Seeds, Mito Technologies, and Meristem Solutions, GTI markets vegetable and flower seeds as well as plants, greenhouse, and growing supplies to both home gardeners and professional growers. 

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Job Summary

The Inventory Accountant is responsible for overseeing all accounting and financial processes related to inventory management within the organization. This role ensures accurate recording, reporting, and analysis of inventory transactions to support operational efficiency and financial decision-making. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of accounting principles, inventory management, and business operations in a medium-sized organization.

Key Responsibilities:

Inventory Accounting:

• Maintain accurate records of all inventory transactions, including purchases, transfers, and adjustments.
• Perform monthly, quarterly, and annual inventory reconciliations to ensure consistency between physical inventory and financial records.
• Monitor cost fluctuations and analyze variances between actual and standard costs.
• Develop and implement inventory accounting policies, procedures, and controls to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Review and reconcile purchase orders to inventory received onsite and drop shipped directly to customers

Inventory Valuation & Reporting:

• Calculate and report inventory valuations (FIFO, LIFO).
• Prepare detailed inventory reports for management, highlighting trends, discrepancies, or risks.
• Ensure compliance with financial reporting standards (GAAP, IFRS, etc.) regarding inventory valuation and cost accounting.
• Collaborate with auditors during internal and external audits to provide accurate inventory data.

Collaboration with Operations & Supply Chain Teams:

• Partner with supply chain, procurement, and warehouse teams to optimize inventory levels and minimize obsolescence.
• Analyze inventory turnover rates and recommend adjustments to improve cash flow and operational efficiency.
• Assist in the budgeting and forecasting process, especially related to inventory costs.

Process Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for process improvements in inventory tracking and reporting systems.
• Implement or support the deployment of inventory management systems/software.
• Establish and maintain internal controls to safeguard inventory assets.

Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure all inventory transactions comply with organizational policies and legal requirements.
• Monitor and report potential risks, such as obsolete inventory or fraud, and suggest mitigation strategies.

General Accounting:

• Assist the accounting staff with general accounting processes and daily tasks.
• Assist with month end accounting journal entries and account reconciliations.

Qualifications & Skills:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (CPA or CMA certification is a plus).

Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in accounting, preferably with a focus on inventory management.
• Experience in a medium-sized organization or similar environment is preferred.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Great Plains, Acumatica) and inventory management systems.
• Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables and data analysis.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and inventory tracking tools.

Soft Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure.

Work Environment:

• Office-based with periodic visits to warehouses or production facilities for inventory audits and reviews.
• May require occasional overtime during month-end or year-end closing periods.

EEO Statement - Garden Trends, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, age, weight, religion, creed, disability, gender identity, marital status, results of genetic testing, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other factor protected by law. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, demotion, and training. Garden Trends Inc. expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment or discrimination based on any of the characteristics mentioned above. Improper interference with the ability of other employees to perform their expected job duties is not tolerated. 

FLSA: Exempt 

Salary: $60,000-75,000 per year

Disclaimer - The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel in this position. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. 

Job Type: Full-time 

Benefits: 

• 401(k) 
• Dental insurance 
• Disability insurance 
• Flexible spending account 
• Health insurance 
• Health savings account 
• Paid time off 
• Vision insurance