Payroll Accountant II

PaulHood • Chattanooga, TN

1d • Onsite

About The Position

At PaulHood, we are transforming the mid-market CPA industry into an entirely new model. Our year-round membership approach provides clients with proactive tax and financial guidance tailored to their long-term goals. With over 15,000 clients nationwide and 30+ years of service, we’ve modernized our firm with scalable systems and centralized operations that function more like a SaaS company than a traditional CPA firm. In response to our continued growth, we are seeking a Payroll Accountant II to support both accurate payroll processing and the preparation and review of reliable financial information for our clients. This role is responsible for collecting, validating, and entering payroll data while ensuring full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as maintaining strong bookkeeping practices, performing reconciliations, and assisting with financial reporting. The position plays a critical role in executing payroll and accounting workflows efficiently and accurately, serving both internal teams and external clients with professionalism and responsiveness. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in payroll processing and compliance, bookkeeping and reconciliations, client communication, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration, along with the ability to deliver high-quality service in a fast-paced environment. To be successful in this role, you must be highly detail-oriented, organized, and process-driven, with a strong commitment to data integrity and client success. You should be comfortable managing multiple payroll schedules, navigating complex client needs, and interpreting payroll policies with confidence. The ideal candidate is proactive in identifying and resolving issues, communicates clearly and professionally, and works effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team. A positive, solution-focused mindset and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment are essential.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, spreadsheets, and accounting software, especially ADP
• Two to Three years of proven experience utilizing QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online for accounting functions, including bookkeeping, reconciliations, financial reporting, and payroll processing.
• Must become QBO Pro Advisor and Payroll certified within 90 days of employment.
• You’re detail-oriented with a knack for accurate data entry and maintaining compliance in all payroll processes.
• You’re knowledgeable about payroll practices, wage and hour laws, and compliance requirements.
• You have a good understanding of accounting practices and procedures, ensuring high accuracy and compliance.
• You manage multiple tasks effectively, maintaining attention to detail, and meeting deadlines consistently.
• You proactively address issues and seek solutions for complex challenges.
• You thrive in a high-paced environment and stay calm under pressure.
• You build strong relationships through effective communication, supporting client needs, and business growth.
• You collaborate effectively with colleagues, contributing positively to team goals.
• You’re tech-savvy and know Microsoft Office suite and the ability to quickly learn new software and technology.
• You maintain the highest level of confidentiality and integrity in all interactions.
• You understand the importance of confidentiality and maintain professionalism in all interactions.
• You are punctual and present at work on time.

Nice To Haves

• Public accounting experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Process payroll transactions, including salaries, benefits, garnishments, taxes, and other deductions with precision and efficiency.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of payroll updates, including new hires, terminations, and pay rate changes, by meeting all established deadlines.
• Maintain client employee payroll records, ensuring data integrity and compliance with company standards.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour laws, staying current with changing regulations.
• Share compliance knowledge with team members to promote adherence to best practices.
• Learn new software and systems as needed to enhance payroll processing efficiency.
• Assist in creating procedures and training materials to educate team members and clients on payroll compliance and best practices.
• Prepare and track client financial information with precision and efficiency, ensuring that all data is accurate and timely.
• Audit payroll and bank accounts at least monthly, verifying deposits and withdrawals with the client’s general ledger.
• Accurately allocate expenditures to the correct accounts following departmental procedures.
• Review data entry for clerical accuracy and prepare accounting and financial reports as needed, ensuring clarity and compliance.
• Engage directly with clients to understand their needs, promote services, and expand business opportunities.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with clients and the team to ensure alignment and deliver exceptional client experiences.
• Maintain a billable percentage of 90% and a realization rate of 90% each quarter.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support team and organizational goals.

Benefits

• Bonus Opportunity
• Stock Options
• Generous time off allowance (Holiday, Vacation, & Sick time), above industry standard
• Paid parental leave
• Comprehensive Employee Benefits Package
• 401k Program with Company Matching
• Paid Volunteer Days
• Educational/Personal Growth Reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED