What are the responsibilities and job description for the Accounting/Payroll Specialist & Payroll Benefits Administrator position at Columbia Basin Hydropower (CBHP)?

Columbia Basin Hydropower has an opening for a regular full-time accounting / payroll specialist & payroll benefits administrator person. Primary work location is in Ephrata, Washington. Successful candidate will work a five (5) eight (8) or a four (4) ten (10) hour day schedule. Competitive benefit package includes WA PERS Retirement and family health insurance. Starting hourly rate is dependent upon qualifications. Must have valid Washington driver’s license. Interested applicants should send resume outlining qualifications and list of three references to 107 D Street NW, Ephrata, WA 98823 or e-mail to info@cbhydropower.org by March 3, 2025.

Position Overview

Columbia Basin Hydropower is hiring an Accounting Specialist to perform key finance functions, including payroll administration, benefits processing, accounts payable (AP), and project-based accounting . This role ensures accurate financial tracking, compliance with Washington State payroll laws, and adherence to internal financial policies . The ideal candidate will have experience in payroll processing, retirement contributions, benefits administration, and regulatory compliance , particularly in a government or utility setting .

Essential Functions

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) , may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below . The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer.

Payroll & Benefits Administration

Process and manage biweekly payroll , ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local wage laws, RCWs, and collective bargaining agreements .
Maintain and update payroll records, direct deposits, tax withholdings, deductions, and garnishments .
Administer employee benefits , including healthcare, VEBA, PERS, DCP, life insurance, and disability programs .
Process payroll-related tax filings and reporting , including 941s, W-2s, W-3s, state employment security, and labor & industries (L&I) compliance .
Conduct payroll audits to ensure accuracy and compliance with company policies .
Reconcile payroll liabilities related to retirement plans, benefits deductions, and employer contributions .
Resolve payroll discrepancies , including wage adjustments, leave accruals, and employee payroll inquiries.
Assist with open enrollment, new hire benefits orientation, and employee life event changes .

Accounts Payable (AP) & Financial Processing

Process weekly AP transactions , ensuring proper approvals, coding, and policy compliance .

Conduct bank reconciliations , verify payment accuracy, and resolve vendor discrepancies.

Maintain detailed documentation of AP activities , ensuring timely and accurate vendor payments.

Assist with financial reporting, year-end close, and external audit preparation .

Project-Based Accounting & Cost Tracking

Maintain accurate financial records for infrastructure modernization and capital projects .

Track and allocate expenses related to capital projects and operational budgets .

Support grant and contract compliance , ensuring proper financial reporting.

Work closely with engineers, contractors, and financial staff to ensure accurate accounting for capital investments .

Miscellaneous

Other Duties as assigned. This position may be assigned special tasks or duties on occasion

Compliance & Internal Controls

Maintain and enforce internal control procedures to ensure audit readiness .

Ensure compliance with GAAP, public sector accounting standards, and RCWs .

Support regulatory filings, external audits, and financial compliance reviews .

Assist in financial policy development and procedural improvements to streamline accounting operations.

General Responsibilities

Serve as a subject matter expert in payroll processing, benefits administration, and AP .

Work with HR to ensure compliance with employment laws, labor contracts, and payroll regulations .

Generate ad-hoc reports and financial statements for management review.

Maintain confidentiality and integrity when handling sensitive payroll and HR-related data.

Safety & Compliance

Understand and adhere to all compliance requirements related to financial and office functions.

Required Qualifications

Associate’s degree (AA / AAS) in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.

5 years of experience in payroll processing, AP, benefits administration, and financial reconciliations .

Knowledge of Washington State payroll laws, RCWs, labor agreements, and tax regulations .

Experience in utility, or government accounting is highly preferred .

Strong proficiency in QuickBooks Desktop, payroll software, and Microsoft Excel .

Ability to analyze payroll discrepancies, process tax filings, and ensure accurate benefits administration .

Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills .

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range : $70,000 - $91,000 per year (DOE).

Comprehensive Benefits Package :

Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage .

Life and AD&D insurance (paid basic coverage with additional options).

Short-term disability insurance .

Paid Time Off (PTO) : Includes vacation, sick leave, and 11 paid holidays .

Retirement Benefits : Enrollment in Washington State PERS , with DCP employer matching contributions .

Voluntary Employees’ Beneficiary Association (VEBA) for healthcare cost management.

Physical Requirements

Work is performed in a standard office environment .

Must be able to sit for extended periods, perform repetitive tasks such as data entry, and occasionally lift up to 20 pounds .

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Salary : $70,000 - $91,000

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Accounting/Payroll Specialist & Payroll Benefits Administrator

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