Payroll Analyst II

Edward Jones

About The Position

The Payroll Analyst II is responsible for accurate and timely reporting of paycheck taxes for the firm’s partners and associates, as well as payroll tax reporting and remittances to third parties, including garnishments and taxes. The role requires in-depth conceptual and practical knowledge of multistate payroll tax and basic knowledge of Canadian taxes. The analyst investigates and resolves complex tax issues independently, using judgment based on multiple sources of information, and applies knowledge of payroll compliance and how it integrates with other business areas. The position may provide opportunities to lead projects and includes accountability for ongoing activities and objectives. It also serves as a resource for less experienced colleagues. The analyst ensures accurate system calculations and timely reporting of U.S. and Canadian payroll taxes; responds to questions and special requests from associates and regulatory agencies; researches payroll laws and regulations; and prepares projections, general ledger reconciliations, and special reports for leadership. The role develops and executes internal controls for payroll tax reporting and compliance, reviews automated audit controls and payroll tax journal entries, supports payroll deadlines and financial integrity, recommends and implements process improvements, and partners with department leaders and associates on payroll-related initiatives. The position handles confidential compensation information for associates in the U.S. and Canada. Candidates living within commuting distance of the Tempe, Arizona, or St. Louis, Missouri, home office locations are expected to work in the office four days per week.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; an emphasis in Accountancy, Finance, or a related field is strongly preferred.
3 to 5+ years of relevant work experience in accounting, finance, or a related field.
In-depth conceptual and practical knowledge of multistate payroll tax.
At least basic knowledge of Canadian taxes.
Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including navigating and controlling large datasets.
Ability to investigate and solve complex tax issues independently with minimal guidance, exercising judgment based on multiple sources of information.
Knowledge of payroll compliance best practices and how payroll compliance integrates with other business areas.

Nice To Haves

Public accounting experience.
One or more of the following certifications: Certified Payroll Professional (CPP), Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC), Canadian Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP), or Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Experience with payroll systems and processes, including PeopleSoft and ADP.
Time and labor system experience.

Responsibilities

Ensure accurate system calculations and timely reporting of U.S. and Canadian payroll taxes.
Respond to questions and special requests from associates and regulatory agencies.
Research payroll laws and regulations.
Create projections, general ledger reconciliations, and special reports for leadership.
Develop and execute internal controls for accurate payroll tax reporting and compliance.
Balance operational and system priorities, remove obstacles for team members to meet critical payroll deadlines, and help ensure the financial integrity of payroll programs.
Review automated audit controls and payroll tax journal entries.
Recommend, document, and support implementation of payroll tax process improvements through research and analysis.
Support identification, planning, and/or execution of complex projects while meeting internal and external deadlines.
Partner with department leaders and associates to support successful implementation of strategic payroll initiatives.
Serve as a resource for colleagues with less experience and handle confidential compensation information for U.S. and Canadian associates.

Benefits

Medical and prescription drug coverage
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Voluntary benefits, including accident, hospital indemnity, and critical illness coverage
Short- and long-term disability coverage at no cost to associates
Basic life and basic AD&D coverage at no cost to associates
401(k) retirement plan
Health savings account
Flexible spending account
Ten paid holidays
15 days of vacation for new associates beginning on January 1 of each year
Sick time and personal days
Paid day for volunteerism
Potential eligibility for bonuses and profit sharing
Employee Assistance Program