Payroll and Accounts Payable Specialist

Payroll and Accounts Payable Specialist

About the Role:

The Payroll and Accounts Payable Specialist will be responsible for managing the payroll process and overseeing accounts payable functions. This role requires a keen eye for detail, strong organizational skills, and a passion for supporting the financial health of a non‑profit organization.

Clayton Early Learning is a leading nonprofit dedicated to providing children from birth to five with an exceptional start and empowering families for lifelong success. We directly serve approximately 500 children annually through our school, home‑based programs, and community partnership sites. As a proud member of the Educare Learning Network and the Head Start community, we are deeply committed to providing high quality early childhood education through a whole‑child, whole‑family approach.

Our unique location on a 20‑acre historic campus in Denver is the foundation for our strategic vision to become a thriving neighborhood center to serve the community more fully, addressing needs including food security and health care access. Our team of over 125 dedicated professionals works in a supportive environment of collaboration, innovation, and personal growth.

What the Role Involves:

Payroll Duties:

• Process bi‑weekly payroll for all employees, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal requirements.
• Maintain employee time cards.
• Manage payroll‑related inquiries and resolve any issues or discrepancies.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations.

Accounts Payable Duties:

• Review, verify, and process vendor invoices and expense reports.
• Ensure timely and accurate payment of all accounts payable.
• Reconcile accounts payable transactions and resolve discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate records of all accounts payable activities.
• Manage vendor relationships and handle communication regarding payment inquiries.
• Assist with the preparation of financial reports and documentation.

General Responsibilities:

• Assist with the monthly and year‑end closing processes.
• Support internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and information.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth financial operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the financial team.

What we are looking for:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Experience: 2+ years of experience in payroll processing and accounts payable.
• Proficiency in accounting software (Net Suite preferred) and payroll systems (Paylocity preferred).
• Skills: Strong understanding of payroll and accounts payable principles and practices.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and integrity.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Experience in a non‑profit organization is a plus but not required.
• Background Check: Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check, including CBI/FBI fingerprinting. MVR and a national sex offender registry check.

• 16+ paid company holidays
• Spring Break and Winter Break – up to 10 paid days off
• Accrued vacation time (starting at 10 days/year, up to 30 with tenure)
• Paid sick time
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance coverage
• Life and AD&D insurance
• Mental health support through our medical plan and EAP
• Long‑term disability coverage
• 401(k) with 5% employer match after 1 year
• FSA plans
• College 529 investment options
• Identity theft protection and more

• $60,000 – $65,000 annually

Clayton Early Learning is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create an inclusive work place that embraces life experiences, and perspectives. We prohibit discrimination of employees or applicants on the basis of race, creed, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual identity, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, disability, or any other classification considered discriminatory under applicable law.