Payroll Clerk / Accounting Assistant

McGrath Evanston Subaru • Skokie, IL

4h

About The Position

McGrath Evanston Subaru is seeking a detail-oriented, highly organized Payroll Clerk to join its administrative and accounting team in Skokie. The role manages day-to-day payroll processing, employee timekeeping records, and payroll reporting in a fast-paced environment. Automotive dealership experience and familiarity with union payroll structures are strongly preferred.

The Payroll Clerk processes multi-department weekly or bi-weekly payroll, administers union pay rules and related reporting, audits timecards and compensation records, and maintains confidential personnel and payroll files. The role also collaborates with Human Resources, management, and department heads and assists the Controller and office management team with routine accounting tasks and financial reporting.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of payroll processing experience.
• Proficiency with modern payroll or ERP software.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including VLOOKUPs and pivot tables.
• Exceptional attention to detail and strong time-management skills.
• Commitment to maintaining data confidentiality and discretion.
• High school diploma.

Nice To Haves

• Automotive dealership or high-volume retail payroll experience.
• Direct experience handling union contracts, dues, and specialized payroll structures.
• Experience with dealership management systems (DMS).
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration.

Responsibilities

• Accurately process multi-department weekly or bi-weekly payroll for dealership personnel, ensuring compliance with state and federal labor laws.
• Administer union pay rules, fringe benefits, wage scales, and union reporting requirements.
• Review employee timecards, commission sheets, and bonus structures for accuracy and resolve discrepancies before final payroll submission.
• Maintain confidential personnel and payroll files, track paid time off, and handle garnishments, tax withholdings, and deductions.
• Work with Human Resources, management, and department heads to verify employee status changes, new hires, and terminations.
• Assist the Controller and office management team with routine ledger entries, month-end reconciliations, and ad-hoc financial reporting.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) retirement plan options
• Paid time off and holiday benefits
• Opportunities for professional growth within a premier automotive group

What This Job Offers

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