Payroll Analyst

Job Summary

The Payroll Accounting Analyst is responsible for the accounting, reconciliation, financial reporting and payroll, ensuring payroll transactions are accurately recorded in the general ledger and compliant with GAAP, tax, and internal control requirements. This role partners closely with Payroll and Finance to support month‑end close, payroll accruals, reconciliations, audits, and variance analysis.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Accounting & GL Support

• Record and reconcile payroll journal entries, including wages, taxes, benefits, bonuses, equity compensation, and accruals
• Reconcile payroll clearing, liability, tax, benefit, and withholding accounts on a monthly basis
• Ensure payroll data flows accurately from payroll systems to the general ledger
• Investigate and resolve payroll‑related variances, discrepancies, and reconciling items

Month‑End & Financial Close

• Prepare payroll‑related accruals, adjustments, and true‑ups as part of month‑end close
• Support balance sheet and income statement analysis tied to payroll expenses
• Maintain supporting schedules for payroll, benefits, and compensation‑related accounts

Tax, Compliance & Audit Support

• Support payroll tax reconciliation and review of payroll‑related tax filings
• Assist with internal and external audits by preparing schedules, reconciliations, and documentation
• Ensure payroll accounting complies with GAAP, internal controls, and company policies

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Payroll and HR on payroll changes impacting accounting (new hires, terminations, leave, bonuses, equity, retro pay)
• Coordinate with Treasury on payroll funding, timing, and cash requirements
• Support system integrations, process improvements, and payroll accounting automation initiatives

Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare payroll‑related reports for Finance and leadership
• Analyze trends in payroll expense, benefits, and headcount‑driven costs
• Assist with ad hoc projects related to compensation, benefits, and payroll accounting

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• 2-5 years of experience in payroll accounting, general ledger, or corporate accounting
• Strong understanding of payroll accounting, accruals, and reconciliations
• Experience working with payroll systems and ERPs
• Advanced Excel skills and strong attention to detail