OPT Staff Accountant Jobs
Staff Accountant roles are among the more OPT-friendly positions in finance, with many mid-size and large employers accustomed to sponsoring CPT and OPT students from accounting programs. Your 12-month OPT window, extendable to 36 months with a STEM OPT extension if your degree qualifies, gives employers enough runway to evaluate you for long-term sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Covetrus is a global animal-health technology and services leader dedicated to empowering veterinary practice partners to drive improved health and financial outcomes. We bring together products, services, and technology into a single platform that connects our customers to the solutions and insights they need to work best. Our passion for the well-being of animals and those who care for them drives us to advance the world of veterinary medicine.
Job Title: Staff Accountant – Property Accounting
Department: Controllership
Reporting To: CSS & Property Accounting Controller
Location: Remote
SUMMARY
The Staff Accountant – Property Accounting is responsible for supporting key accounting processes related to lease accounting, fixed assets, and capital project tracking for Covetrus’ North American entities. This role includes preparing journal entries, performing account reconciliations, investigating variances, and collaborating with cross-functional teams including Real Estate, FP&A, and IT. This is an excellent opportunity for an accounting professional early in their career who is looking to grow in a dynamic environment with exposure to technical accounting topics and operational process improvement. The ideal candidate will demonstrate an eagerness to enhance processes, improve efficiencies, establish consistent controls, and possess research and technical skills.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist with the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close process, ensuring accurate and timely reporting in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
- Prepare journal entries and supporting documentation for fixed asset transactions, lease activity, and capital expenditures, as well as assist with other general accounting areas and special projects as assigned.
- Perform balance sheet reconciliations, including analysis and investigation of reconciling items.
- Support the lease accounting process under ASC 842, including system entries and coordination with the Real Estate and Legal teams.
- Assist with tracking internal-use software development costs and capital labor efforts in accordance with GAAP.
- Support asset lifecycle management, including capital asset additions, disposals, and transfers.
- Help maintain capital project schedules and track spend against budget.
- Partner with the Financial Planning & Analysis and Procurement teams to support capital forecasting and reporting.
- Assist with external audit and internal requests, providing necessary schedules and documentation.
- Support efforts to enhance internal controls, standardize processes, and drive automation and efficiency.
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
- Advanced accounting skills and strong analytical abilities.
- Leadership capabilities and the ability to work independently when appropriate.
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Excellent collaboration and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Adaptive learner and good with technology, as there are multiple ERP systems to learn.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- CPA eligible, working toward CPA licensure, or CPA preferred; MBA a plus.
- 2+ years of relevant accounting experience (internships or public/private accounting experience preferred).
- Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Intermediate understanding of U.S. GAAP.
- Strong Excel skills and familiarity with accounting systems (experience with Microsoft D365, NetSuite, System21, Prolease).
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- A collaborative and curious mindset with a desire to learn and grow.
We offer the following benefits for you to take advantage of while you are here provided you meet the eligibility requirements under each governing program:
- 401k savings & company match
- Paid time off
- Paid holidays
- Maternity leave
- Parental leave
- Military leave
- Other leaves of absence
- Health, dental, and vision benefits
- Health savings accounts
- Flexible spending accounts
- Life & disability benefits
- Identity theft protection
- Pet insurance
- Certain positions may include eligibility for a short-term incentive plan
Salary may vary depending on factors such as confirmed job-related skills, experience, and location. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each case. Sales Positions are eligible for a Variable Incentive.
The pay range for this position is as follows:
$53,300-$76,200
Covetrus is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
INTRODUCTION
Covetrus is a global animal-health technology and services leader dedicated to empowering veterinary practice partners to drive improved health and financial outcomes. We bring together products, services, and technology into a single platform that connects our customers to the solutions and insights they need to work best. Our passion for the well-being of animals and those who care for them drives us to advance the world of veterinary medicine.
Job Title: Staff Accountant – Property Accounting
Department: Controllership
Reporting To: CSS & Property Accounting Controller
Location: Remote
SUMMARY
The Staff Accountant – Property Accounting is responsible for supporting key accounting processes related to lease accounting, fixed assets, and capital project tracking for Covetrus’ North American entities. This role includes preparing journal entries, performing account reconciliations, investigating variances, and collaborating with cross-functional teams including Real Estate, FP&A, and IT. This is an excellent opportunity for an accounting professional early in their career who is looking to grow in a dynamic environment with exposure to technical accounting topics and operational process improvement. The ideal candidate will demonstrate an eagerness to enhance processes, improve efficiencies, establish consistent controls, and possess research and technical skills.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist with the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close process, ensuring accurate and timely reporting in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
- Prepare journal entries and supporting documentation for fixed asset transactions, lease activity, and capital expenditures, as well as assist with other general accounting areas and special projects as assigned.
- Perform balance sheet reconciliations, including analysis and investigation of reconciling items.
- Support the lease accounting process under ASC 842, including system entries and coordination with the Real Estate and Legal teams.
- Assist with tracking internal-use software development costs and capital labor efforts in accordance with GAAP.
- Support asset lifecycle management, including capital asset additions, disposals, and transfers.
- Help maintain capital project schedules and track spend against budget.
- Partner with the Financial Planning & Analysis and Procurement teams to support capital forecasting and reporting.
- Assist with external audit and internal requests, providing necessary schedules and documentation.
- Support efforts to enhance internal controls, standardize processes, and drive automation and efficiency.
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
- Advanced accounting skills and strong analytical abilities.
- Leadership capabilities and the ability to work independently when appropriate.
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Excellent collaboration and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Adaptive learner and good with technology, as there are multiple ERP systems to learn.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- CPA eligible, working toward CPA licensure, or CPA preferred; MBA a plus.
- 2+ years of relevant accounting experience (internships or public/private accounting experience preferred).
- Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Intermediate understanding of U.S. GAAP.
- Strong Excel skills and familiarity with accounting systems (experience with Microsoft D365, NetSuite, System21, Prolease).
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- A collaborative and curious mindset with a desire to learn and grow.
We offer the following benefits for you to take advantage of while you are here provided you meet the eligibility requirements under each governing program:
- 401k savings & company match
- Paid time off
- Paid holidays
- Maternity leave
- Parental leave
- Military leave
- Other leaves of absence
- Health, dental, and vision benefits
- Health savings accounts
- Flexible spending accounts
- Life & disability benefits
- Identity theft protection
- Pet insurance
- Certain positions may include eligibility for a short-term incentive plan
Salary may vary depending on factors such as confirmed job-related skills, experience, and location. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each case. Sales Positions are eligible for a Variable Incentive.
The pay range for this position is as follows:
$53,300-$76,200
Covetrus is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Staff Accountant
Target employers with a history of OPT sponsorship
Public accounting firms, multinational corporations, and regional companies with dedicated HR teams are far more likely to have OPT sponsorship infrastructure in place. Smaller firms often lack the legal resources to support work authorization, so focus your search accordingly.
Lead with your CPA exam progress
Employers hiring Staff Accountants care deeply about CPA candidacy. Mentioning passed sections or active exam enrollment signals long-term commitment and makes sponsorship more appealing, since they're investing in someone building a career, not just filling a temporary role.
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
Accounting degrees under CIP code 52.0301 qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you 36 months total. Verify your program's CIP code with your DSO before interviewing, so you can confidently communicate your full authorization window to employers.
Apply before your OPT start date if possible
Starting your job search three to four months before graduation gives employers time to evaluate you without deadline pressure. Hiring managers are less hesitant about OPT when they have adequate lead time to complete onboarding and any required E-Verify steps.
Prepare a clear one-sentence explanation of OPT
Many hiring managers outside of large corporations have never sponsored OPT before. A simple explanation, such as noting that OPT is post-graduation work authorization requiring no employer filing fees or petitions, removes a major psychological barrier during early conversations.
Emphasize technical accounting skills on your resume
Proficiency in ERP systems like SAP or Oracle, experience with month-end close processes, and familiarity with U.S. GAAP are what get Staff Accountant interviews. Strong technical credentials shift the conversation from your visa status to your actual qualifications.
Staff Accountant OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as Staff Accountants in the United States?
Yes. Staff Accountant roles qualify as directly related employment for F-1 OPT students holding accounting, finance, or business degrees. Your work must relate to your field of study to remain compliant with OPT regulations. Most accounting degree programs under CIP code 52.0301 also qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you up to 36 months of total work authorization.
Do employers need to file any paperwork to hire me on OPT as a Staff Accountant?
No employer petition or filing fee is required during your OPT period. Your employer does need to enroll in E-Verify, which is a free federal employment eligibility system, and you must report the job to your DSO within 10 days of starting. This low administrative burden makes OPT one of the most straightforward ways for accounting employers to hire international students.
Which types of employers are most likely to sponsor Staff Accountants on OPT?
The Big Four accounting firms, large regional CPA firms, and multinational corporations with in-house accounting teams sponsor OPT students most consistently. These organizations have established HR and legal processes for work authorization. Mid-size companies in industries like technology, healthcare, and manufacturing also frequently hire Staff Accountants on OPT. Migrate Mate lists accounting roles at employers with a demonstrated history of OPT sponsorship, so you can focus your search efficiently.
What happens to my OPT if I lose my Staff Accountant job?
F-1 OPT students are permitted up to 90 days of unemployment during the standard 12-month OPT period. If you are on a STEM OPT extension, the limit increases to 150 days cumulative across both periods. You must report any job separation to your DSO promptly and begin your search immediately, since exceeding the unemployment limit terminates your OPT authorization.
Does working as a Staff Accountant on OPT help with future H-1B sponsorship?
Accounting roles are well-established specialty occupations under H-1B visa standards, and Staff Accountant positions at firms experienced with visa sponsorship frequently convert to H-1B petitions. Demonstrating CPA progress and strong performance reviews strengthens the case for sponsorship. Starting in a role at an employer with prior H-1B filing history gives you the best odds of a smooth transition before your OPT authorization expires.