Payroll Accounting Analyst

Job Description

Department:

Pay Rate Type:

Employee Type:

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Director of Financial Services Operations, the Payroll Accounting Analyst plays a critical role in providing analytical and technical expertise in payroll processing and tax compliance. This position is responsible for the thorough review, reconciliation, and interpretation of all payroll data, while ensuring the integrity and efficiency of payroll systems and processes. Additionally, the role provides essential support to employees, facilitating payroll-related tasks and resolving complex issues with a focus on accuracy and compliance. We encourage inquiries from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of our College, including its cultural and ethnic diversity.
 

Essential Functions

To be successful in this position, an individual should be able to perform the essential duties and bring the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities that support the role. Colby College supports the Americans with Disabilities Act and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.  This list of duties is intended to be representative rather than exhaustive, and additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.

• Perform end-to-end, accurate, and timely processing of multiple payrolls (bi-weekly and monthly) in accordance with labor regulations and standard accounting and payroll principles

• Process accurate and prompt retroactive and special payments

• Identify, research, and resolve payroll discrepancies and related issues by analyzing payroll data, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and understanding the downstream impacts of corrective actions

• Utilize test system for troubleshooting purposes

• Support employees with inquiries about tax withholdings, direct deposit, and guide them in making updates via Employee Self-Service in a kind and courteous manner

• Promptly process payments and supplier invoice requests for withholding orders and specified employee benefit deductions following the completion of payroll to meet required deadlines

• Reconcile all payroll liability accounts monthly

• File and reconcile quarterly payroll taxes via ADP smart compliance

• Assist with the preparation, submission, and disbursement of W-2s

• reports for timekeeping, absence, taxation, and payroll to assist with any special data requests or filings

• Collaborate cross-functionally with campus teams, including IT, HR, other departments, and external vendors, to ensure accurate payroll processing, data transmission, and security protocols for bi-weekly and monthly payrolls

• Follow departmental practices; develop and/or recommend new or revised guidelines to improve overall efficiency

• Ensure compliance with College policies and procedures, governmental regulations, wage tax laws, segregation of duties, Department of Labor, and other federal and state legislation impacting payroll; adhere to established control objectives

• Maintain employees’ confidence and protect payroll operations by keeping information confidential

• Perform additional duties as assigned; duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

Position Qualifications

Education and/or experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education and experience

• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible in payroll, finance or HCM roles

• Certified Payroll Professional - or willingness to become certified

• Preferred experience in higher education or in a mid-to-large HR/payroll function

• Strong knowledge of wage and hour laws, including federal, state, and local payroll taxes

• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel

• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and support-oriented skills

• Ability to adapt to changing regulations or technologies in payroll, demonstrating flexibility and willingness to learn

• Proven problem-solving, decision-making abilities, and keen attention to detail and accuracy

•  Proficiency with integrated and automated payroll accounting systems

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion and sound judgment

• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team, establish priorities, and work collaboratively as a member of a diverse community

Preferred Qualifications or Skills:

• Preferred familiarity with Workday and ADP SmartCompliance

Physical/Mental Demands

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here reflect what is typically needed to perform the essential functions of this position and what may be experienced while carrying out those duties. .  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

•  To perform this role effectively, an employee is expected to handle employee information, documents, and sensitive matters with care, professionalism, and respect for privacy.

• This position involves working with a variety of timelines, including some that require quick turnaround and responsiveness to urgent needs.

•  In this role, the employee will interact with members of the public and others in a variety of situations and conversations. Presenting oneself in a professional, respectful, and thoughtful manner at all times is an important part of the role.

• This position includes regular movement throughout office spaces, hallways, meeting rooms, and other campus locations.

•  Daily work may involve extended use of a computer, including keyboard and mouse

•  Physical requirements differ by position. In general, most roles involve lifting up to 10 pounds regularly, with some positions requiring occasional lifting of up to 35 pounds or, in more physically demanding roles, up to 50 pounds.

•  Vision requirements for this position include the ability to see clearly at close and far distances and to adjust focus as needed.

•  The work environment is dynamic and engaging, often involving multiple tasks and projects that require shifting focus and strong organizational skills.

• The noise level is generally moderate; however, there may be occasional moments of louder sounds depending on campus activity.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should apply electronically by clicking the “Apply Now” button on the Colby College website.  Please upload a cover letter and resume to your application.