Payroll Accountant

Processes, posts, analyzes and maintains in a timely manner accounting entries, ledgers, journals and other financial information within the accounting department. Specialized areas include processing bi-weekly payroll and handling all matters associated with a successful pay period. The payroll accountant will prepare payroll schedules, records, and contribute to various accounting and human resource tasks as requested. The successful applicant will have a general understanding of payroll laws, related taxes and a general understanding of accounting.

Reports to: Lead Managerial Accountant

Supports: Controller, Manager of Revenue & Reporting, Manager of Finance, and Lead Financial Accountant

Directs: None

• Prepare payroll schedules, records, and contribute to various accounting and human resource tasks as requested.
• Enter and verify employees’ information in the cooperative's payroll system based on records from the human resources department.
• Oversee the processing of employee paychecks on a bi-weekly basis, calculating gross and net salaries considering time entry, approved pay rate, deductions and with holdings.
• Process overtime pay, retroactive pay and bonuses earned.
• Communicate with supervisors regarding incomplete time entry records or employee time entry-related questions.
• Monitor paid and unpaid leave balances including sick, vacation and unexcused absences by collaborating with the human resources department.
• Answer employee questions and communicate payroll-related information.
• Remit payments for all payroll-related employer and employee taxes and with holdings.
• Prepare accounting records and schedules for all payroll-related activity.
• Collaborate with the lead managerial accountant and controller to continuously ensure a proper control environment is in place for payroll-related information and securing payroll data.
• Reconcile benefit and withholding accounts to the general ledger.
• Remit payments for all benefit providers.
• Reconcile accounts receivable for retirees.
• Prepare audit work papers, answer auditor's questions, and assist with audits and employee benefit plan audits.
• Reconcile and close inventory monthly
• Prepare inventory billings.
• Assist with physical inventory.
• Assist with request adds/removes to the driver list for the fleet fuel cards.
• Prepare and maintain related journal entries.
• Assist in the reconciliation of general ledger accounts.
• Provide information and assistance as required to all departments.
• Assist in special projects as necessary.

• Associate degree in finance, accounting or related experience and/or training equivalent.
• Training in data entry and computer operations including PC applications.
• Minimum 2 years progressive payroll experience required.
• Payroll experience with large organizations (200+ employees) preferred.

• Must be able to maintain professionalism and control under all circumstances.
• Has and maintains a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record and is able to operate SVEC vehicles.
• Must become and remain certified in CPR and first aid. Must also be skilled in the use of safety equipment.
• Strong verbal, written, analytical and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office products including Excel and Word.
• Must be able to provide financial information by researching and analyzing accounting data and preparation of reports.
• Must be able to perform intermediate-level accounting duties with ability to verify, balance and adjust accounts.
• Perform record-keeping duties with a high degree of skill and accuracy.
• Possess effective techniques to research and access all sources necessary to fulfill position responsibilities.
• Maintain a high level of confidentiality with regards to associate, member and corporate information.
• Demonstrated ability to provide proactive and professional service to employees while assisting the accounting department in fulfilling its goals and objectives.
• Must have access to reliable transportation to and from work.

• Participation in SVEC job safety and training…