Accounting Associate - Japanese Bilingual

This company is a small and growing accounting firm providing accounting and tax services primarily to Japanese-affiliated companies and their U.S. operations. They work closely with our clients to support their accounting, payroll, and tax compliance needs.
They are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Accounting Staff member with native-level Japanese and strong English skills to join our team.
This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to build a career in U.S. accounting and taxation while working with Japanese-affiliated companies.
Key Responsibilities

• Review and organize clients' accounting records using accounting software
• Assist with monthly, quarterly, and year-end closing and financial statement preparation
• Perform account reconciliations and support day-to-day accounting activities
• Assist with payroll processing and payroll tax-related tasks
• Prepare gross-up calculations and payroll adjustments for expatriate employees
• Assist with corporate and individual tax return preparation and federal/state tax filings
• Assist with compliance filings, including Form 1042 and sales tax returns
• Communicate with clients in Japanese and English to collect information and provide accounting support
• Learn and apply U.S. accounting and tax rules across a variety of client engagements

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent accounting education
• Solid understanding of basic accounting principles, including journal entries, financial statements, and account reconciliations
• Native-level Japanese and strong English communication skills
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Accounting or tax experience is preferred, but candidates with a strong accounting foundation and limited practical experience are welcome
• Experience with QuickBooks Online or other accounting software is a plus

Work Arrangement

• Primarily remote
• Occasional in-person work at our Schaumburg office as needed
• Candidates living within commuting distance may receive more frequent in-person training and support, particularly during the initial training period
• Candidates living farther away are welcome and should be comfortable working independently with remote training and support

Compensation & Benefits

• $50,000–$80,000 per year, depending on experience and background
• Health insurance – employee contribution: 20%
• Simple IRA retirement plan
• Paid time off – starting at 10 days per year
• 3-month introductory/probationary period, followed by regular employment based on performance

Why Join Us?

• Hands-on experience in U.S. accounting and taxation
• Work directly with Japanese-affiliated companies and their management teams
• Exposure to accounting, payroll, tax, and compliance
• Supportive small-firm environment
• Training and mentoring for continued professional growth