Payroll & Client Accounting Associate II

Reports to: Senior Client Accountant / Payroll Manager / Controller
FLSA: Non-exempt
Pay Type: Hourly
Range: $30-$36 / hour (depending on experience)

Role Summary

The Hybrid Payroll & Client Accounting Associate II is responsible for managing both recurring payroll and client accounting processes across a portfolio of clients. This role requires strong attention to detail, ownership, and the ability to work independently within established systems.

This position blends payroll execution and compliance with core client accounting responsibilities such as bookkeeping, accounts receivable, accounts payable, reconciliations, and month-end support. Success in this role comes from accuracy, accountability, and the ability to manage multiple client deadlines in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Operations & Compliance

• Independently process recurring payrolls in Gusto, Quick Books Online Payroll, or clients' software.
• Independently prepare and file quarterly payroll reports either through client software or tax 1099.
• Maintain employee records, deductions, and job classifications.
• Assist with year-end W-2 processing and filings.
• Prepare benefit remittance reports.
• Draft responses to routine IRS and state agency notices (under review).
• Support payroll needs across multiple industries (e.g., construction, restaurant, nonprofit, agriculture).

Client Accounting Operations

• Manage recurring bookkeeping tasks for assigned clients, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Perform transaction coding and classification (prepaids, accruals, deposits, payroll allocations).
• Process A/P payment batches and ensure proper documentation and approvals.
• Record A/R activity, apply payments, and monitor outstanding balances.
• Maintain vendor and customer records and ensure data integrity.
• Organize supporting documentation and maintain audit-ready records.

Reconciliations & Month-End Close Support

• Perform bank and credit card reconciliations and troubleshoot discrepancies.
• Prepare recurring and adjusting journal entries with supporting documentation.
• Review general ledger activitiy and flag anomalies for senior review.
• Draft and assemble month-end close work papers and schedules for review.
• Track deadlines and proactively communicate status updates.

Process, Systems, & Continuous Improvement

• Accurately maintain Canopy project management.
• Follow firm SOPs, checklists, and workflows to ensure consistency and quality.
• Identify and suggest process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Utilize accounting and payroll systems effectively while maintaining organized documentation.
• Contribute to development of templates, SOPs, and internal documentation.

Client Communication & Team Collaboration

• Handle day-to-day client communications related to payroll, A/R, A/P, and administrative requests.
• Draft technical client responses and communications for review by senior staff.
• Collaborate with internal team members to meet client and firm deadlines.
• Communicate progress proactively and participate in team meetings and initiatives.

Team & Firm Contribution

• Demonstrate ownership and accountability in completing recurring client work.
• Support and mentor Associate I team members.
• Adapt to evolving systems and workflows in a growing firm environment.
• Maintain a professional, solutions-oriented mindset.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 1-3 years of payroll, accounting, or bookkeeping experience.
• Experience with payroll processing, filings, and reconciliations.
• Proficiency in Quick Books Online, payroll platforms (e.g., Gusto), and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple client deadlines independently.
• Strong…