A Payroll Accountant organizes and maintains payroll records and makes employment-related tax payments for a company and its employees. Calculates employee paychecks and tax and benefit withholding amounts. Completes reports on employee compensation. Reviews payroll and tax documents as needed for audits.
Accounting Description The Payroll Accountant is responsible for managing the university's payroll processing and related accounting functions in compliance with institutional policies, federal/state regulations, and internal audit standards. This position plays a key role in ensuring timely, accurate, and efficient payroll services for faculty, staff, and student employees. The Payroll Accountant will utilize Paycom for payroll processing and Jenzabar for financial and administrative reporting and reconciliation.
Key responsibilities include:
Process bi-weekly and monthly payrolls accurately and timely using Paycom, including all data entry, adjustments, and terminations. Coordinate with HR and departmental administrators to ensure accurate and timely submission of payroll data. Maintain and reconcile payroll general ledger accounts within Jenzabar; ensure all payroll-related expenses and liabilities are properly recorded. Prepare and submit payroll-related journal entries and assist in month-end and year-end closings. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations; prepare and reconcile payroll tax filings, W-2s, and other year-end reports. Address and resolve payroll discrepancies, employee inquiries, and audit findings in a timely and professional manner. Assist with the development and maintenance of payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls. Provide data analysis and payroll reports as requested by the Disbursements Manager or other senior leadership. Support external audits, internal reviews, and financial reporting requirements as they relate to payroll. Stay current on payroll regulations and best practices, including updates within Paycom and Jenzabar. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. Minimum of 2 years of experience in payroll accounting or financial operations, preferably in higher education or a nonprofit setting. Proficiency in payroll systems, with demonstrated experience using Paycom and familiarity with Jenzabar or similar ERP systems. Solid understanding of payroll laws, tax regulations, and accounting principles. High level of attention to detail and accuracy; strong analytical and organizational skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a customer-service orientation. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with integrity.
