Senior accountant / bilanzbuchhalter (m/f/d)

As part of the Precision Optics business unit of the MATERION Corporation, we are among the world's leading manufacturers of optical components. Our production sites in Europe, North America, and Asia offer a unique range of optical coatings, glass processing, structuring and bonding technologies, as well as the manufacturing of complete assemblies.

We are seeking a highly experienced and meticulous

Senior Accountant / Bilanzbuchhalter (m/f/d)

About the Role:

For our site in Jena we are seeking a motivated senior accountant with 3 to 5 years of relevant experience who is eager to develop their skills and contribute to the financial health of our manufacturing business. This role offers hands-on accounting tasks, ensuring compliance with German accounting standards, and supporting month-end close and reporting activities in an US based corporation.

This role requires a proactive and responsible accountant who can independently manage day-to-day accounting operations and serve as the primary finance contact at the Jena site. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with corporate finance, tax, and audit teams to ensure accurate and compliant financial reporting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take ownership of the accounting function onsite, ensuring timely and accurate financial data and reporting.
• Assist with the month-end and year-end close processes, including preparing journal entries and performing account reconciliations.
• Support accounts payable (A/P) and accounts receivable (A/R) activities, including invoice processing and payment follow-ups.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date general ledger records.
• Assist in inventory accounting and support basic cost tracking activities
• Ensure compliance with local statutory accounting requirements and internal policies.
• Support preparation of financial reports and assist with variance analysis to help management understand financial performance.
• Act as the main local point of contact for internal and external stakeholders related to accounting and finance matters.
• Coordinate with corporate finance and tax teams to support consolidated reporting and compliance requirements.
• Support audit processes by preparing documentation and responding to queries independently.
• Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes and contribute to system enhancements.
• Identify and escalate issues or risks to corporate finance as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent professional qualification, e.g. Bilanzbuchhalter/in).
• 3 to 5 years of relevant accounting experience, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and take ownership of accounting processes.
• Strong communication and coordination skills to liaise effectively within a global matrix organization.
• Experience in managing relationships with external service providers (e.g., auditors, tax consultants) is a plus.
• Basic understanding of cost accounting principles.
• Familiarity with local German accounting standards and tax regulations.
• Knowledge of international accounting standards (e.g., IFRS, US GAAP) is beneficial but not required.
• Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel (including basic formulas and data handling).
• Good command of English and German (spoken and written).
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Eagerness to learn, take initiative, and work collaboratively in a team environment.

What We Offer:

• A varied and hands-on role in a dynamic, international company.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Supportive and positive working atmosphere with motivated colleagues.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

Application link: