Senior Accountant

greatdane· Finance and Accounting
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📍 Chicago, IL, USFULL TIME

About this role

Overview

THE ROLE

 

At Great Dane, we rely on makers and we’re calling on them to join our expanding team, the time has never been better to Embrace Your Great and work in an environment with the highest safety standards in the industry.  

                                                                                                                        

The Position: The Senior Accountant is responsible for full ownership of the general ledger and financial reporting for two assigned manufacturing locations. This role partners closely with plant leadership, operations, engineering, and supply chain to ensure accurate product costing, margin analysis, and financial visibility across the business. The ideal candidate combines strong technical accounting skills with a proactive, operational mindset and the ability to thrive in a multi-facility manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

WHAT YOU’LL DO

 

Financial Reporting & Close Process

  • Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual close for assigned plants
  • Prepare accurate financial statements and supporting schedules
  • Analyze variances versus budget, forecast, and prior year
  • Prepare management reporting packages with clear commentary on performance drivers
  • Coordinate year-end reporting requirements and support external audit processes

Cost Accounting & Operational Partnership

  • Perform detailed product costing and margin analysis
  • Analyze labor, material, and overhead variances

Budgeting & Forecasting

  • Support annual budgeting and periodic forecasting processes
  • Collaborate with plant leadership to model cost drivers and volume assumptions

Internal Controls & Compliance

  • Maintain and strengthen internal control structure across plant operations
  • Monitor expense activity and ensure proper accruals and cut-off procedures
  • Safeguard company assets through inventory oversight and reconciliation
  • Assist with physical inventory observation at year end

Systems & Process Improvement

  • Utilize ERP system (JDE or similar) to drive reporting accuracy
  • Leverage advanced Excel skills to improve reporting efficiency
  • Identify opportunities to streamline processes and enhance financial visibility within PowerBI
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives across the accounting function
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

YOUR SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS)

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (required).
  • Experience: 3+ years of accounting experience, preferably in manufacturing or public accounting
    • CPA preferred but not required
  • Skills: Strong understanding of cost accounting principles
    • Experience with ERP systems (JDE preferred)
    • Advanced Excel proficiency
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills
    • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment
  • Travel: Willingness to travel 10–15% domestically

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Office and plant environment.
  • Keyboarding, lifting, standing, bending, walking.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

ABOUT GREAT DANE

 

With a history dating back to 1900, Great Dane has established itself as a transportation solutions leader of today – delivering innovative products and exceptional services that help our customers and employees succeed. We not only engineer durable and high-quality trailers and truck bodies; we foster relationships that last a lifetime.

 

WHY WORK FOR US?

 

Great Dane is a leading manufacturer of dry-freight vans, refrigerated trailers, and flatbeds with 10 manufacturing facilities and 20 service centers throughout the United States. With a legacy like ours comes a dedication to the hard-working individuals that make Great Dane what it is today. Our jobs are waiting to be filled by driven, challenge-focused & enthusiastic people like you.

 

Our culture is comprised of “Champions” and offers a rewarding workplace rooted in core values of safety, leadership, integrity, quality, and passion. Every employee has opportunities to learn, to grow, to succeed and to be engaged in a collaborative environment.

 

BENEFITS OVERVIEW

  • Competitive compensation
  • Benefits, including but not limited to dental, vision, and medical with employer contributions
  • Retirement programs, including a Pension Plan and 401(k) Plan with employer match
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid holidays and vacation
  • And more!

SALARY RANGE

The expected salary range for this role is $70,000 - $95,000 per year. 

The above represents the expected salary range for this job requisition. Ultimately, in determining your exact pay, we may also consider your skills, experience, and other job-related factors. 

 

Great Dane is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the salary disclosed for the Senior Accountant position at greatdane?
The salary for this Senior Accountant role at greatdane is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Senior Accountant position at greatdane located?
This Senior Accountant role at greatdane is based in Chicago, IL, US. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Senior Accountant role at greatdane full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a FULL TIME position. It is posted as a Senior Accountant role in the Finance and Accounting department at greatdane.
Which team or department does the Senior Accountant at greatdane belong to?
This Senior Accountant position is part of the Finance and Accounting department at greatdane. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Senior Accountant position at greatdane?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to greatdane's official application portal hosted on icims where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Senior Accountant job at greatdane posted?
This Senior Accountant position at greatdane was posted on Jun 5, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Senior Accountant
greatdane
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