Payroll Specialist / Junior Accountant

Payroll Specialist / Junior Accountant

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for accurate payroll processing and a knack for accounting? We are looking for a dedicated Payroll Specialist who is also eager to support our finance team with general accounting functions. This versatile role offers an exciting opportunity for career growth, flexibility, and the chance to make a meaningful impact within a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Administration (Approximately 70%)

Process bi-weekly or semi-monthly payroll for hourly and salaried employees, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

Maintain and update employee records, including tax withholdings, direct deposit information, and benefits enrollments within payroll systems such as Gusto, ADP, Paychex, or QuickBooks Payroll.

Prepare and file all payroll-related reports, including Form 941, DE9 / DE9C, and year-end W-2s and 1099s.

Reconcile payroll accounts, manage tax liabilities, wages, benefits, garnishments, and deductions.

Address employee inquiries related to pay, benefits, and time off in a timely and professional manner.

Accounting Support (Approximately 30%)

Assist with data entry for accounts payable and accounts receivable, ensuring accuracy and proper coding.

Record journal entries, reconcile balance sheet accounts, and support general ledger maintenance.

Contribute to month-end and year-end closing processes.

Support preparation of financial reports, documentation for internal use, and coordination with external auditors.

Aid in expense tracking, bank reconciliations, and credit card reconciliations to ensure accurate financial data.

Qualifications

Education : Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.

Experience : Minimum of 2 years in payroll processing; exposure to general bookkeeping or accounting functions is a plus.

Technical Skills : Proficiency in payroll and accounting software such as QuickBooks, Gusto, ADP, or similar platforms; strong Microsoft Excel skills.

Knowledge : Solid understanding of wage and hour laws, payroll tax compliance, and fundamental accounting principles (GAAP).

Soft Skills : Exceptional attention to detail, confidentiality, and the ability to meet deadlines with accuracy. Strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset are essential.

Preferred Attributes

Experience with multi-state payroll processing.

Background in small business or multi-client accounting environments.

Familiarity with journal entries, trial balances, and financial statement preparation.

Eagerness to learn, grow within the accounting field, and take on new challenges.

What We Offer

Competitive compensation aligned with experience.

Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

Paid time off and holidays.

Opportunities for professional development, cross-training, and career advancement within our finance team.

Join us in a role that combines payroll precision with meaningful accounting responsibilities. If you thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and are eager to grow your skills, we want to hear from you!