Staff Accountant

The Staff accountant will be engaged in various accounting tasks such as creating journal entries, performing reconciliations, carrying out monthly close procedures and other accounting duties. The ideal candidate will have U.S. GAAP Accounting knowledge (degree), ability to learn quickly and work with a high volume of data, solid communication skills and work well in a team environment.  CPA preferred.

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  Reliable and dependable attendance is required.

• Manage assigned projects by prioritizing work to meet established deadlines, ensuring that accounting objectives are accomplished and keeping leadership informed of project status and issues
• Prepare journal entries, including supporting documentation
• Perform reconciliations of assigned accounts utilizing Blackline
• Perform analytics and provide support for explanations
• Adhere to timelines in support of Public Company SEC and other reporting deadlines
• Document accounting processes and procedures in assigned areas
• Communicate with and provide requested information to management and internal/external auditors
• Work collaboratively within the Accounting team and with other Corporate functions
• Identify, develop and implement solutions to drive accounting efficiencies
• Become subject matter expert for assigned accounting areas
• Support other accounting related projects and functions as assigned
• Adhere to Company policies and procedures

• CPA preferred
• Degree with a concentration in Accounting
• Understanding of U.S. GAAP and Internal Controls
• Public Accounting experience a plus
• Ability to handle multiple, concurrent assignments and meet deadlines
• Excellent communication skills
• Experience within the retail, restaurant, or similar industry that includes multiple locations in various states helpful
• Experience in a Public Company/SEC reporting environment a plus
• Ability to manipulate large amounts of data/Advanced Microsoft Excel skills

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.