Accountant II (Payroll Manager & Accountant)

Accountant II (Payroll Manager & Accountant) Topeka Public Schools USD 501 Burnett Administrative Center - Topeka, Kansas This job is also posted in Topeka Public Schools Job Details

Job ID:

5616687

Application Deadline:

Dec 31, 2026 11:59 PM (Central Standard Time)

Posted:

Mar 30, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date:

Immediately Job Description

Position Type:

Classified Salaried

Department:

Business Office

Salary:

Commensurate with education and experience Position Summary The Accountant II (Payroll Manager & Accountant) is a professional-level accounting position responsible for managing the District's payroll operations while also performing advanced accounting functions related to general accounting, project accounting, and financial reporting. This position provides daily leadership and oversight of payroll processing to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with all applicable federal and state requirements. In addition, the position supports accounting operations through journal entries, reconciliations, project and project account setup, and related financial analysis and reporting. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Oversee and manages daily payroll operations to ensure accurate and timely processing of wages, stipends, deductions, benefits, garnishments, and taxes. Serves as the primary point of contact for payroll operations and issue resolution. Provides training, guidance, and performance feedback related to payroll processes and procedures. Ensures compliance with all federal and state payroll, wage, hour, and tax regulations. Coordinates year-end payroll activities including W-2 and 1099-R processing, reconciliations, and filings. Works closely with the Assistant Treasurer to reconcile payroll taxes and resolve discrepancies. Prepares and maintains detailed payroll records, reports, and audit documentation. Provides backup support and troubleshooting assistance to payroll staff during peak periods or absences. Identifies and recommends improvements to payroll systems, processes, internal controls, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system configurations. Performs advanced accounting functions, including journal entries, reconciliations, account analysis, and financial reporting. Assists with setting up projects and project accounts and maintaining related records within the District's ERP system. Supports month-end and year-end financial processes and reporting. Assists with external audits by providing required documentation and explanations. Maintains current knowledge of accounting standards, payroll regulations, and compliance requirements. Collaborate with Human Resources staff to ensure accurate and consistent payroll and accounting practices. Performs other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field is required. Three or more years of experience with increasing responsibility in payroll or governmental accounting is required. Three or more years of experience in a lead or supervisory role. Experience with payroll processing, payroll tax compliance, and year-end reporting in a high volume environment is required. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field is preferred. Experience with governmental accounting, account reconciliations, and financial reporting is preferred. Experience with Tyler Enterprise ERP is preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Demonstrated knowledge of payroll operations, payroll tax compliance, and internal controls. Strong understanding of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and governmental accounting standards. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Finance/HR ERP systems. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines. Effective communication skills for working with staff across departments. Ability to work independently while collaborating as part of a finance team. Ability to supervise staff, delegate effectively, and support professional growth. Ability to manage multiple deadlines and shifting priorities. Ability to build positive working relationships with staff, administrators, auditors, and outside agencies. Ability to do other tasks as assigned to support the Department services Ability to maintain confidentiality and use sound professional judgment. Working Conditions / Physical Demands The work is primarily performed in an office environment. The employee may be required to sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, use a computer for extended periods, and occasionally lift, carry, or move light office materials weighing up to 15 pounds. The position requires speaking, listening, manual dexterity, repetitive motions, and visual acuity sufficient to review detailed financial documents and enter data with a high degree of accuracy. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Position Type:

Full-Time Job Requirements Citizenship, residency or work visa required