Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm
Travel: Regional Travel to Other MN Locations (25%)
Summary:
CW Companies is a trusted leader in the metal recycling industry, reclaiming valuable materials, reducing waste, and advancing the circular economy. As a steadfast steward, we uphold uncompromising standards in safety, environmental compliance, governance, and financial transparency. We cultivate a high-performing values-driven workplace where accountable teams, disciplined controls, and operational excellence deliver consistent results and long-term value for our partners, employees, and communities. We are committed to building long-term partnerships, fostering employee growth, and creating meaningful opportunities to promote from within. The Accounting & Payroll Support Specialist is a key support role within the Company’s financial operations, providing direct day-to-day assistance supporting core accounting, payroll, and administrative functions while developing a strong working knowledge of internal financial processes, controls, and reporting standards. This role is intentionally designed as a cross-training and development position. Over time, the individual will build the capability to operate in a backup capacity for both accounting and payroll functions, ensuring continuity and stability when coverage is needed. The position requires strong attention to detail, adaptability, discretion, and a proactive approach to learning, with a clear expectation of growth into increased responsibility and ownership.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide daily support across accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and general ledger functions.
- Assist with processing invoices, payments, and deposits with accuracy and proper documentation.
- Support bank and credit card reconciliations; identify and escalate discrepancies.
- Assist with payroll data entry, verification, and documentation while maintaining confidentiality.
- Enter journal entries and maintain accurate financial records.
- Compile month-end reports and supporting documentation.
- Prepare and organize records for audits and external accounting requests.
- Complete credit applications and support account setup processes.
- Assist with rail billing and other operational accounting tasks.
- Provide administrative support including filing, data entry, and document management.
- Cross-train to provide backup support for accounting and payroll functions.
- Provide front desk or scale house coverage as needed.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to financial controls and company policies.
- Continuously expand technical knowledge through training, resources, and hands-on learning.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support financial operations.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function.
Education and/or Experience
- Associate’s degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is preferred.
- Proven proficiency across both Google Workspace and Microsoft Office Suite, including strong working knowledge of Excel and QuickBooks, with the ability to navigate and utilize a wide range of related applications effectively.
- Ability to quickly learn and effectively operate within company-specific accounting systems and software
- Strong understanding of accounts payable, accounts receivable, banking transactions, and account reconciliations.
- Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize deadlines, and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent communication skills for working with vendors, customers, external accountants, and internal teams.
- Ability to handle confidential information with integrity and discretion.
- Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving discrepancies.
- Willingness to learn industry-specific processes and terminology related to metal recycling operations.
Language Skills
Ability to read, interpret, and apply financial documents, internal policies, and established procedures with accuracy. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required to support clear, professional interactions with internal teams, vendors, and external partners. This role requires the ability to document information accurately, follow standardized processes, and communicate questions or discrepancies in a concise and effective manner.
Mathematical Skills
The successful candidate must have the ability to apply intermediate mathematical concepts and financial formulas commonly used in accounting. They must be able to calculate figures related to cash handling, discounts, credits, and vendor pricing. Acute forward-thinking regarding numerical data accurate financial reporting, as well as resolving financial variances are essential to this position.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to apply sound judgment and follow established processes to support daily financial operations. This includes identifying inconsistencies, recognizing when escalation is appropriate, and contributing to accurate, consistent outcomes. The role requires the ability to work within structured systems, maintain attention to detail, and support existing workflows while adapting to changing priorities and operational needs.
Computer Skills
Strong proficiency in both Google Workspace and Microsoft Office Suite is required, with an emphasis on Excel for data organization and analysis. This role requires comfort working across multiple systems simultaneously, maintaining accuracy in data entry, and managing digital records in a structured and efficient manner. The ability to quickly learn new platforms, navigate system workflows, and adapt to evolving technology is essential. Candidates should demonstrate sound judgment when handling data, and strong organizational habits.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
This position is primarily office-based and involves extended periods of sitting, frequent computer use, and handling of documents. The role requires regular use of a keyboard, mouse, and standard office equipment, as well as the ability to occasionally stand, walk, and move between work areas. Employees may be required to lift and carry items such as files or office supplies, typically up to 10–15 pounds.
The work environment is professional and structured, with routine interaction across office and operational teams. Occasional movement between office and facility areas may be required, and employees are expected to remain aware of surroundings and follow all company safety protocols. A consistent focus on organization, ergonomics, and safe work practices is expected to support a productive and injury-conscious environment.
Pay: From $26.00 per hour
Work Location: In person