Payroll Accountant, Senior

Booz Allen Hamilton•Washington, DC

1d•$69,400 - $158,000•Onsite

About The Position

Join a dynamic, systems‑driven payroll accounting team where you will serve as a subject matter expert and lead contributor to critical financial operations. In this senior role, you will own complex payroll accounting processes, collaborate closely with Payroll Operations, Financial Systems, and Corporate Accounting teams, and ensure accurate, timely, and compliant financial results that support Booz Allen Hamilton’s core mission. You will lead analysis, strengthen controls, guide junior staff, and advance process and system improvements that enhance enterprise‑wide payroll integrity.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in accounting or finance
Experience with monthly close processes, including preparation and review of journal entries, reconciliations, and detailed fluctuation analyses
Experience supporting internal, external, financial, and regulatory audits
Experience providing guidance, mentorship, or leadership within an accounting team
Experience with Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools
Knowledge of payroll‑related accounting concepts, including accruals, adjustments, payroll variance analysis, and issue resolution
Knowledge of compliance and internal control requirements, including SOX, process documentation, and remediation
Ability to independently develop solutions to complex accounting and operational issues
Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

Nice To Haves

Experience with Costpoint, Dayforce, or other ERP or payroll systems
Knowledge of US GAAP and government cost accounting standards
Knowledge of multi‑state and multi‑country payroll, employee benefits, and payroll tax concepts
Ability to adapt to changing priorities
Ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organization
Possession of exceptional analytical, problem‑solving, organizational, and communication skills
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Certification preferred

Responsibilities

Own the end‑to‑end payroll accounting cycle, including preparation and review of complex journal entries, reconciliations, payroll‑related accruals, adjustments, and account analyses.
Analyze multi‑state and multi‑country payroll results, investigate variances, and resolve discrepancies in partnership with Payroll Operations and Financial Systems.
Serve as a key advisor on payroll accounting impacts during system changes and regulatory updates and assist with policy revisions.
Lead monthly, quarterly, and year‑end close activities for payroll‑related accounts, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
Design, document, and enhance payroll‑related internal controls, including SOX compliance, testing support, and remediation activities.
Lead audit engagements for payroll accounting areas, serving as primary point of contact for internal, external, financial, and regulatory auditors.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives by identifying automation opportunities, optimizing payroll accounting processes, and partnering cross‑functionally to implement solutions.
Provide formal mentorship and guidance to junior team members, review work for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to policies and standards.
Support special projects and enterprise‑wide initiatives requiring advanced accounting, systems knowledge, or cross‑functional coordination.