Payroll Accounting Analyst

Colby College•Waterville, ME

About The Position

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. 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.

Requirements

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
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

Nice To Haves

Preferred experience in higher education or in a mid-to-large HR/payroll function
Preferred familiarity with Workday and ADP SmartCompliance

Responsibilities

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