Onboarding Accounting Specialist

Who We Are

About Ascend

Backed by private equity from people-focused Alpine Investors, Ascend is building a dynamic platform for regional accounting firms that enables them to stay independent while accessing the resources of a Top 25 firm to help them grow. Ascend provides access to growth capital, robust talent acquisition and training, leading quality management resources, best-of-breed technology, AI tools, an offshore captive, shared back-office services, a catalytic leadership system, and modernized equity incentives so that firms can surmount today’s industry challenges to reach their full potential.

For more information, visit www.ascendtogether.com .

About ODC

Opsahl Dawson (ODC) was founded in 1979 in Longview, WA, where we have flourished into the award-winning firm we are today. We specialize in Accounting, Tax Preparation, and Bookkeeping with 175+ people across the United States. With 30+ years of proven service, we’re the go-to CPA firm in SW Washington. You’ll be joining a fun team and a renowned firm that is recognized as one of the Top 10 Fastest Growing Accounting Firms by Accounting Today.

In January 2023, ODC made the strategic decision to join Ascend! With Ascend’s partnership and shared resources, ODC is well positioned for strong innovation and growth in the years to come.

The Role

We are seeking an Onboarding Accounting Specialist to join our team! In this role, you will ensure a seamless and efficient onboarding experience for new CAS clients and lead firm-wide special initiatives that enhance client delivery, operational performance, and technology integration. You will act as the bridge between internal teams, clients, and firm leadership, making sure new client services are implemented successfully and strategic projects are executed well. Your focus will span the client onboarding experience, process innovation and implementation, project and change management, technology enablement and adoption, and cross-departmental collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

Lead all onboarding phases for new CAS clients, from kickoff to steady-state transition

Create and manage client onboarding project plans and timelines

Conduct needs assessments and tailor onboarding processes accordingly

Serve as a liaison between CAS delivery teams and clients during onboarding

Monitor onboarding progress and resolve roadblocks

Identify opportunities for automation and process improvement in onboarding workflows

Coordinate and execute firm-wide special projects, such as software rollouts and new service launches

Develop onboarding SOPs, templates, and best practices

Maintain onboarding metrics and prepare regular reporting to leadership

Train CAS team members on onboarding processes and tools

Facilitate cross-departmental collaboration for multi-service clients

Support firm innovation initiatives through project planning and execution

Help implement new tools and systems that affect client onboarding or operational efficiency

Support Leadership in Sales Goals, Expansion, and Growth

Work on Proposal workups and ensuring Engagement Letters reflect final scope

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in business, accounting, or a related field

3 to 5 years of experience in project management, onboarding or operations

Exceptional organizational and time management skills

Clear and professional communication, written and verbal

High attention to detail and process discipline

Strong interpersonal skills to navigate cross-functional teams

Comfort with ambiguity and fast-paced change

Client service orientation with a proactive mindset

QuickBooks and QuickBooks Desktop

Payroll Processing and Reporting

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in a CPA firm

PMP, CAPM or similar certification

Familiarity with tools such as Bill.com, various Payroll Platforms, and more

CCH Experience

Who We Look For

A perceptive team-player who excels in a progressive environment, blending sharp analytical skills with exceptional communication. A detail-oriented performer who embodies critical thinking and high standards. A proactive professional, constantly seeking to deliver outstanding service.

Location

At Opsahl Dawson, we’ve designed a flexible work structure that enables both teamwork and independence, enhancing our employees’ work experience while promoting personal well-being. This role can be hybrid or remote.

What We Offer

Join our team and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that supports well-being, health, and ongoing professional growth:

Unlimited PTO

Medical, Dental, Vision, & Voluntary Insurance Options

401(k) Matching

Annual Performance Bonus

12 Paid Holidays

Flexible Scheduling Options

Innovative Workplan System

$500 annual Vacation Incentive

Commitment to Professional Development

Equity Program Eligibility at Sr. Manager Level + top performing Managers

How to Apply

Submit your information in the application section directly below! This will include:

Basic contact information

Resume/CV and optional cover letter upload

Work eligibility and compensation

Voluntary demographic & self-ID questions

The annual base salary range for this role is $100,000-$125,000. This range includes the anticipated low and high end of the salary range for this position. Actual compensation may vary based on various factors, including experience, education and/or skill level.

At Ascend, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Ascend hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.