PURPOSE:
The Payroll & Accounting Specialist is responsible for supporting daily payroll and accounting operations with a focus on payroll, expense processing, reconciliations, and accuracy of employee-related financial data. This role assists the accounting team as needed in general accounting tasks, financial record maintenance, and reporting. The Payroll & Accounting Specialist ensures payroll and expenses are recorded correctly and timely, supports compliance with internal controls, and upholds the organization’s financial standards. This position does not include onboarding responsibilities.
ACTIVITIES + RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Process payroll and expense data, ensuring accurate entry, coding, and reconciliation of all payroll related costs.
- Review time sheets, expense reports, and payroll summaries for accuracy and completeness.
- Prepare payroll journal entries and assist with month-end and year-end close procedures related to payroll.
- Reconcile payroll accounts, including wages, taxes, deductions, benefits, and other employee-related liabilities.
- Maintain payroll and accounting records, ensuring proper documentation and filing.
- Assist with verifying benefits, employee deductions, and related payroll accruals.
- Work with the Accounting Manager to resolve discrepancies and improve payroll and accounting processes.
- Assist with accounts payable tasks as needed.
- Support annual audits by preparing payroll-related schedules and documentation.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, internal controls, and applicable regulations.
- Provide general administrative and accounting support to the department as assigned.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding employee information and company financial data.
REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Strong understanding of payroll functions and basic accounting principles.
- Proficiency with payroll systems and accounting software.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to handle sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
- 5+ years of experience in payroll, accounting, or related administrative roles required.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
- Consistently operates a computer and other office productivity machinery.
- Must be able to travel to various offices as needed.