Payroll & Accounting Specialist

Capital Region Water•Harrisburg, PA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The role of Payroll and Accounting Specialist involves ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of payroll processing and related financial tasks. The position requires close collaboration with supervisors, payroll providers, and employees to manage payroll, benefits, and contract-related processes. Key responsibilities include timecard verification, payroll funding, benefits reconciliation, and contract management, along with providing support to the Accounting team.

Requirements

5+ years of payroll experience for a workforce of 100+ hourly and salaried employees.
Bargaining Unit (Union) payroll experience preferred.
3+ years of experience with journal entries, invoicing, and financial statements.
May be developed after hire Advanced knowledge of payroll processes and practices, including payroll tax.
Basic knowledge of accounting principles and practices (GAAP).
Advanced knowledge of HRIS software and information systems.
Basic understanding of municipal water, wastewater and stormwater management services.
Ability to communicate and act clearly and concisely to build good vendor relationships.
Strong organization skills and detail oriented.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
Associate’s degree in accounting or the equivalent in training and experience.

Responsibilities

Assist Supervisors with Timecard Review
Verify that all regular, overtime, and performance-related payments adhere to standard practices and the collective bargaining agreement.
Coordinate Payroll and Retirement Fund Processing
Work closely with payroll providers to guarantee timely bi-weekly payroll processing and 457 Plan funding.
Employee Payroll and Benefits Support
Address employee concerns related to hourly wages, payroll benefits, and ensure proper setup for new hires in HRIS system.
Generate Payroll and Tax Reports
Prepare necessary reports for tax filings, pension plans, audits, and journal entries.
Track and Reconcile Payroll-Related Benefits
Monitor and reconcile balances for sick leave, vacation, FMLA, advances, and payroll deductions.
Calculate Wage Adjustments
Perform calculations for retroactive pay, paid time off payouts, and other wage adjustments.
Manage Payroll Funding and Allocation
Monitor cash flow and transfer funds to cover payroll, benefits, and taxes, ensuring proper allocation of resources.
Analyze and Resolve Pay-Related Issues
Investigate and resolve complex pay-related issues, researching past practices, policies, and contract language.