Payroll & Benefits Accountant

The Mission, Vision, and Values of Sacramento Steps Forward (SSF) is to resolve homelessness through leadership,convening partners, data-driven best practices, and improving system performance. Our vision is an equitable community where everyone has a safe place to call home. We believe in human-centered, community-inspired solutions, with a focus on equity, transparency, and continuous learning.

Under the direction of the Finance Director, the Payroll and Benefits Accountant is responsible for the accurate andtimely processing of payroll, timekeeping, and related accounting functions. The position ensures the accurate calculation of wages, tax with holdings, benefit and garnishment deductions, and compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations. The role supports government reporting, benefits reconciliation, and the preparation of statistical and financial reports.

Payroll is processed for both exempt and non-exempt employees.

SSF embraces technology to develop ongoing efficiencies. Currently the office is a hybrid operation. This position willbe required to report to the office periodically.

• Manages payroll workflows to ensure all payroll transactions are processed and recorded accurately and in a timely manner.
• Processes semi-monthly payroll transactions.
• Reconciles payroll prior to transmission and validates payroll reports.
• Serves as the primary contact with the payroll vendor and account representative regarding payroll-related matters.
• Ensures proper tax treatment and processing of wages, employer-paid benefits, garnishments and other payroll-related transactions.
• Monitors and ensures timely filing and payment of federal, state, and local payroll taxes.
• Processes quarterly filings with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and other required agencies.
• Calculates and processes employee garnishments in compliance with applicable regulations.
• Obtains and maintains required approvals for non-standard payments, including retroactive pay, stipends, andmanual checks.
• Assists with the accurate and timely preparation and distribution of Forms W-2 and 1099.
• Calculates and records accruals related to payroll and non-standard compensation payments.
• Processes manual payroll checks as needed.
• Reviews, updates, and reconciles payroll vendor invoices and statements.
• Serves as the primary contact for payroll, timekeeping, and attendance-related questions and inquiries.
• Provides payroll and timekeeping training to new employees.
• Develops ad hoc financial and operational reports as needed.
• Processes and updates employee wages, hours, tax with holdings, garnishments, retirement contributions, and benefit deductions within the payroll system.
• Performs a secondary review of payroll transactions entered by Human Resources.
• Monitors changes in payroll laws, regulations, and compliance requirements, including wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, garnishments, retirement plans, and benefit deductions.
• Prepares and submits required reports and payments to government agencies, insurance carriers, retirement plan administrators, and other applicable organizations.
• Maintains the Time and Attendance system, including employee setup, audits, and termination processing.
• Performs annual 401(k) audit and reporting activities.
• Submits new hires, terminations, and employee changes to the 401(k) provider and updates payroll records accordingly.
• Reconciles benefit invoices to payroll records and coordinates with Human Resources, Benefits, Accounting,vendors, and carriers to resolve discrepancies and facilitate payment processing.
• Supports annual open enrollment activities by updating payroll deductions and ensuring accurate payroll system setup.
• Assists with benefits audits, retirement plan audits, and other compliance-related reporting requirements.
• Maintains payroll, benefits, and retirement plan records in accordance with organizational policies and applicable regulations.
• Assists Human Resources with the annual Workers' Compensation audit.
• Maintains confidentiality of employee payroll, benefits, and personnel information.
• Collaborates effectively with employees, management, vendors, and external partners to support payroll, benefits administration, and related operational functions.

• Regular, predictable attendance is required.
• Ability to get along and work effectively with others.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of accounting processes, specifically related to payroll and benefits.
• Experience with Quick Books and ADP.
• Experience working in a nonprofit organization.
• Basic knowledge of applicable Federal, State HR/Payroll laws and IRS regulations that impact payroll.
• Excellent processing skills and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Self-motivated, independent, cooperative, flexible, creative, and responsible.
• Must be detail oriented and comfortable working in a changing…