Accounting Associate

Do you enjoy solving problems, working collaboratively, and finding ways to make processes more efficient? If so, you may be a great fit for the Accounting Associate position at Ingevity's North Charleston, SC manufacturing plant.

In this entry-level professional role, you will support a variety of accounting activities that contribute to the accuracy and integrity of financial records, reporting, and operational processes. Working under the guidance of experienced finance professionals, you will gain hands-on experience across multiple accounting disciplines while partnering with plant operations and other functional teams.

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career professional looking to build a strong accounting foundation in a manufacturing environment with opportunities to learn financial reporting, account reconciliation, cost accounting, and process improvement.

What You'll Do

• Support compliance with financial transaction recording standards through accurate processing and maintenance of accounting records within SAP and other financial systems.

• Assist with account reconciliations and analysis related to inventory, production orders, fixed assets, and other balance sheet and profit and loss accounts.

• Contribute to monthly close activities, including preparing schedules, investigating variances, and supporting accurate financial reporting.

• Partner with operations teams to review and resolve production discrepancies and ensure the integrity of manufacturing and inventory data.

• Support fixed asset accounting activities, including asset setup, capitalization, tracking, and periodic review.

• Serve as a key contact for accounts payable processes, helping resolve issues and support efficient invoice processing through Coupa and SAP.

• Assist with cost accounting and variance analysis activities to support operational and financial decision-making.

• Prepare accounting reports and schedules for internal management reporting and compliance requirements.

• Identify opportunities for process improvements and support implementation of solutions that enhance accuracy, controls, and efficiency.

• Participate in special projects and continuous improvement initiatives that support departmental and plant objectives.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

• Limited to no professional accounting experience required; relevant internships, co-ops, or academic projects are beneficial.

• Basic understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting concepts.

• Experience with Microsoft Excel and Word; exposure to ERP systems such as SAP is preferred but not required.

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Ability to gather facts, perform basic analysis, and resolve routine accounting issues using established procedures and guidelines.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work effectively across teams.

• Collaborative mindset, willingness to learn, and enthusiasm for continuous improvement.

• Ability to interpret and communicate accounting information to colleagues and business partners.