Staff Accountant - Payroll

Job Description

Summary

The Albuquerque Academy Accounting Department is seeking a professional with accounting and payroll experience for the Staff Accountant – Payroll position. This position directly reports to the Assistant Controller and will oversee all aspects of the payroll function, ensuring payroll is processed timely, accurately, and in compliance with governmental accounting regulations. In addition, the Staff Accountant reconciles payroll general ledger accounts; prepares and enters payroll journal entries, and will assist with the review of accounts payable and accounts receivable journal entries. Candidates are attracted to our mission and see themselves as engaged community members.

All employees at Albuquerque Academy approach their work in accordance with the values in our mission and in a spirit of kindness, professionalism, generosity, and civility to all members of the community. Our community norms, listed below, underlie our school culture, and all community members are expected to commit themselves fully to them.

• Value and respect the diverse contributions of each person in the community.
• Assume positive intent and inquire if you are left with questions or concerns.
• Engage in face-to-face direct conversations; be clear, open, and honest in your conversations.
• Be present and participate.

Albuquerque Academy seeks to maintain a diverse and energetic staff to work on campus. We encourage applications from groups traditionally underrepresented in independent school communities. The position is open until filled, and applicants are asked to submit a letter of interest and resume along with their online application. Please explain why Albuquerque Academy is the right fit for you and detail your passion for the position.

Essential Functions

• Prepare and review bi-weekly payroll processing to ensure timely and accurate payroll transactions, including salaries, benefits, garnishment, taxes, and other deductions. 
• Works closely with Human Resources to ensure accurate processing of employee payroll updates including new hires, terminations, and changes to pay rates and benefits. 
• Works with the Controller to ensure proper controls, document flows, coordination of changes, and data integrity.
• Prepares payroll disbursements, including benefits, 403(b), and other compensation adjustments.
• Prepares journal entries for all payroll transactions and reconciles related accounts.
• Verifies quarterly tax reports and reconciles year-end processing and distribution of W2s.
• Assists with the annual audit, workers compensation insurance audit, and 403(b) plan audit and compliance testing.
• Utilizes critical analysis skills to research, analyze, and retrieve data for the preparation of payroll reports and analysis.
• Reviews and approves various accounts payable and accounts receivable journal entries.
• Participates in projects and performs other duties as assigned.
• Demonstrate cultural competence and communicate and collaborate effectively across differences.

Job Qualifications

Education

• A Bachelor’s degree in accounting is required.
• Payroll Certification preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience with a demonstrated track record of progressive responsibility within an accounting team.
• Non-profit accounting experience preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of payroll functions, including preparation, balancing, internal control, and payroll taxes.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to use discretion in working with sensitive and confidential records.
• Advanced computer schools and thorough knowledge of software applications, in particular, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Google Sheets, ADP Workforce Now, as well as accounting software applications.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of faculty, staff, parents, and other constituents.

Working Environment

• Working hours may include evenings, holidays, or weekends depending on deadline requirements.

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 15 pounds.
• Ability to walk or travel across campus as needed.

EEO/ADA Compliance

Albuquerque Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Academy will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.