Accountant II; Payroll Manager & Accountant

Accountant II (Payroll Manager & Accountant)

Topeka Public Schools USD 501 Burnett Administrative Center - Topeka, Kansas. Open in Google Maps. This job is also posted in Topeka Public Schools.

Job : 5616687

Final date to receive applications: Dec 31, 2026 11:59 PM (Central Standard Time)

Posted: Mar 30, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Position Type: Classified Salaried, Full-Time

Salary: Commensurate with education and experience

Department: Business Office

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.

• Oversee and manage daily payroll operations to ensure accurate and timely processing of wages, stipends, deductions, benefits, garnishments, and taxes.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll operations and issue resolution.
• Provide training, guidance, and performance feedback related to payroll processes and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all federal and state payroll, wage, hour, and tax regulations.
• Coordinate year-end payroll activities including W-2 and 1099-R processing, reconciliations, and filings.
• Work closely with the Assistant Treasurer to reconcile payroll taxes and resolve discrepancies.
• Prepare and maintain detailed payroll records, reports, and audit documentation.
• Provide backup support and troubleshooting assistance to payroll staff during peak periods or absences.
• Identify and recommend improvements to payroll systems, processes, internal controls, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system configurations.
• Perform advanced accounting functions, including journal entries, reconciliations, account analysis, and financial reporting.
• Assist with setting up projects and project accounts and maintaining related records within the District’s ERP system.
• Support month-end and year-end financial processes and reporting.
• Assist with external audits by providing required documentation and explanations.
• Maintain current knowledge of accounting standards, payroll regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Collaborate with Human Resources staff to ensure accurate and consistent payroll and accounting practices.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.
• Abili…