SR STAFF ACCOUNTANT

At El Pollo Loco, we are on a mission to be the nation's leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant. When it comes to our people, we are all about growth. Whether that means specialized training, a clearly laid out career trajectory or collaborating cross-functionally, we are committed to the success of our people the same way we've been committed to the success of the El Pollo Loco brand for the last 50 years. In fact, we see you as our secret ingredient. While our chicken is fire, it's our people who set us ablaze. Our restaurants are only the tip of the flame! If you're looking for an innovative, winning, and welcoming workplace, then a flamin' good career in our Restaurant Support Center is right for you. At our Support Center, we believe our best work is done Together, when departments collaborate and everyone is confident in contributing their ideas. This is why we are in the office 3 days per week. Let's Get Loco! What's in it for you! STRONG office culture recognized as a Great Place to Work® and driven by our core values: Simple. Together. Relentless. Ownership. Nimble. Growth Career growth opportunities Competitive pay and bonus potential Medical + Dental + Vision Insurance + HSA Savings Account 401(K) Retirement Plan with company match and immediate vesting Paid Vacation + Sick Pay + 12 Paid Holidays Employee Assistance Program Free El Pollo Loco food + restaurant discounts PerkSpot discounts program

POSITION PURPOSE

Performs a wide range of professional accounting duties in support of the organization's general ledger, month-end close, and financial reporting processes. Prepares and reviews complex journal entries, performs balance sheet account reconciliations, and conducts variance and trend analysis across multiple general ledger accounts. Assists in the preparation of detailed schedules and supporting documentation for quarterly reviews and annual audits. Serves as a technical resource to staff accountants and partners cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information. Contributes to process improvement initiatives and supports the accounting team in maintaining a strong internal control environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Prepare, review, and post complex journal entries during the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy and proper supporting documentation. Perform and review balance sheet account reconciliations for assigned general ledger accounts, including cash, prepaid expenses, accrued liabilities, fixed assets, and intercompany accounts; research and resolve reconciling items in a timely manner. Conduct monthly variance analysis and fluctuation reviews, providing clear written explanations of significant variances to management. Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and internal management reporting packages. Prepare detailed schedules, workpapers, and supporting documentation for quarterly reviews, annual audits, and tax filings; serve as a key point of contact for external auditors on assigned areas. Support SOX compliance by executing and documenting key internal controls in accordance with company policies and control narratives. Identify, recommend, and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability of accounting operations. Provide guidance, training, and informal mentorship to staff accountants and serve as a subject matter resource on accounting policies, procedures, and systems. Partner with cross-functional teams (Operations, FP&A, Treasury, Tax, AP/AR) to research transactions, resolve discrepancies, and support business decision-making. Research and apply GAAP and company accounting policies to routine and moderately complex transactions; escalate technical accounting questions as appropriate. Participate in special projects, system enhancements, and ad-hoc analyses as assigned. Interact professionally and ethically, constructively participating as a collaborative team member in pursuit of common goals.

QUALIFICATIONS - EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. The requirements listed below are representative of the education and/or experience required.

Education/Work Experience:

BS in Accounting or Finance required. Minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of progressive accounting experience required, with prior month-end close, journal entry, and reconciliation experience. Multi-unit restaurant, retail, or hospitality industry experience preferred. Public accounting experience a plus. Strong working knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) required. Familiarity with SOX compliance preferred.

License/Certifications:

CPA required (or CPA-equivalent with strong technical accounting background considered). Our Company In 1980 the first American El Pollo Loco opened on Alvarado Street in Los Angeles, quickly becoming a destination for the best citrus-marinated, fire-grilled pollo in town. Over the past four decades, El Pollo Loco has grown into more than 500 restaurants across 9 states, becoming an L.A. mainstay and cultural benchmark along the way. Today, we continue to work just as hard to always provide our customers with Quality Chicken. Fast. Easy. Affordable.

PAY DISCLAIMER - CA ONLY

The pay range identified is the hourly or salary rate El Pollo Loco expects to pay for the posted position. This range does not include any benefits or bonus opportunities that might be available for the position based on position and eligibility criteria. At El Pollo Loco, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at the high end of the range. Individual pay decisions will vary based on a variety of factors including years of experience, industry experience, education, geography, etc.