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The Grower Accountant I/II performs specialized accounting activities related to grower settlements, crop investments, grower payments, and financial reporting. The position ensures the accurate accounting of grower-related transactions, timely grower settlements, account reconciliations, and compliance with established accounting policies and internal controls. The role works closely with Production, Finance, Operations, and growers to support accurate financial reporting and continuously improve grower accounting processes.

Progression from Grower Accountant I to Grower Accountant II is based on demonstrated proficiency in all Grower Accountant I responsibilities, the ability to independently perform complex grower accounting functions, consistent application of sound professional judgment, successful management of complex accounting assignments, and demonstrated leadership in supporting departmental operations and process improvements.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Grower Accountant I/II is a two-level classification series. The level into which a position is assigned is distinguished by the complexity of the accounting work performed, the degree of independent judgment exercised, and the ability to provide back-up support to other members of the grower accounting team.

Grower Accountant I

• Fully proficient professional level
• Performs assigned grower accounting responsibilities following established policies and procedures
• Works under general supervision
• Resolves routine accounting issues independently while referring complex issues to the manager
• Learns specialized grower accounting processes and develop expertise in settlement accounting

Grower Accountant II

• Fully proficient journey-level accountant
• Performs the most complex grower accounting assignments independently
• Develops, records, and monitors accounting transactions associated with domestic and international grower operations, ensuring compliance with company accounting policies and applicable financial reporting requirements
• Exercises considerable judgment in interpreting grower agreements and accounting requirements
• Serves as a subject matter expert on grower accounting processes
• Leads complex reconciliations and problem resolution
• Develops and improves accounting processes
• Serves as backup for other Grower Accountants as assigned
• Trains and mentors less experienced grower accountants
• Lead process improvement initiatives
• Assist with implementation of new accounting systems and procedures

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Grower Accounting

• Develop and implement accounting processes for Ocean Mist Farms’ complex shared equity growing deals
• Document and reconcile accounting activities from custom developed grower settlement application
• Calculate weekly grower charges, enter transactions into the grower settlement system, and reconcile grower accounts
• Perform weekly grower settlement and other accounting tasks for the Grower Accounting function
• Submit correcting journal entries to the general accounting group for posting and prepare accounts receivable general ledger related account reconciliations
• Prepare necessary analytical schedules to support the month-end results
• Prepare requested management reporting and analysis as it relates to crop investment for the Finance and Production departments
• Prepare ad hoc reporting as requested by management as it relates to crop investments
• Other duties as assigned

Cross-functional Communication and Support

• Provides guidance, support and direction to other functional groups pertaining to the grower accounting and inventory processes
• Communicates to and educates employees on the internal control requirements pertaining to these same functions
• Coordinate and assist with the month-end close process to ensure the reporting of accurate and timely month-end results
• Prepare complex Board Reports and submit for review and update Board Summaries once reviewed

Process Improvement

• Participate in cross-functional initiatives to improve accounting processes, internal controls, reporting accuracy, and operational efficiency
• Perform AP vouchers for GA Direct Entry Generator process for necessary growers
• Other duties as assigned

Job Requirements and Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in accounting or finance required or equivalent experience in related agriculture accounting
• Minimum years of experience: Grower Accountant I, 2-4 years of accounting experience; Grower Accountant II, 4-7+ years specialized grower or agricultural accounting experience
• Advanced knowledge of spreadsheet applications (MS Excel) is highly desired
• Advanced proficiency in various programs, including the Famous database, MS Office (Word, Outlook, PowerPoint), Adobe, and internet research skills, is highly desired
• A self-starter who ensures delegated tasks are completed with minimal supervisor follow-up and proactively communicates task and project updates to the supervisor
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is required
• Discreet handling of all business matters
• Coordinate workflow effectively, efficiently, and neatly with a high level of attention to detail as well as superior organizational skills
• Excellent analytical skills are an integral component in carrying out the required duties and responsibilities associated with this position
• California driver’s license and the ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance programs are required
• Work under general supervision; however, requires the exercise of discretion and independent judgment on significant matters
• Must be able to work both independently and as part of a team; identify and resolve complex problems; and manage multiple high visibility projects
• Ability to manage a project from its initiation to completion with minimal supervision
• Ability to carry out defined procedures and duties with specific instructions
• Ability to learn new duties with minimal repetition
• Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to work well with all levels of internal management and staff as well as outside clients and vendors and maintain effective working relationships with all parties
• Strong ability to communicate verbally and comprehend verbal and written communication and instructions
• Must keep Grower Accounting Manager informed on all matters that directly affect the department