Payroll & Revenue Accountant

Milwaukee Repertory Theater•Milwaukee, WI

26d•$65,000 - $70,000

About The Position

Milwaukee Repertory Theater is seeking a detail-oriented and systems-minded Payroll & Revenue Accountant . The ideal candidate will combine strong attention to detail with strategic thinking, excel at problem-solving and process improvement, and thrive as a versatile team player in a fast-paced arts environment. This role offers significant growth opportunities for an accounting professional passionate about supporting the theater's mission while building efficient systems and communicating effectively across all departments.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree, preferably in Accounting, Finance, or related field
2-5 years of direct payroll experience, preferably in nonprofit or organization with union contracts
Proficiency in any type of accounting software (Milwaukee Rep uses Abila MIP)
Experience with payroll systems and software is essential
Strong understanding of revenue recognition principles and balance sheet reconciliation
Advanced Excel skills with interest in financial modeling and analysis
Exceptional attention to detail with ability to maintain accuracy under tight deadlines
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
Systems thinking with drive to improve processes and build efficiency
Self-motivated with ability to work independently and manage priorities
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across departments
Strong written and verbal communication skills to explain financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders
Curiosity and eagerness to learn all aspects of theater financial operations
Flexibility and adaptability to take on diverse responsibilities and provide backup support

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with nonprofit accounting principles and fund accounting preferred

Responsibilities

Process four employee payrolls (weekly and bi-weekly cadences).
Maintain payroll system accuracy (employee records, withholdings, deductions, union contract rates).
Ensure compliance with union contracts.
Process wage garnishments and court-ordered deductions.
Coordinate with Human Resources on new hires, terminations, and benefits changes.
Prepare annual workers' compensation audit and census data for benefit providers.
Identify payroll process improvements and reduce manual work.
Prepare payroll journal entries and reconcile monthly GL entries and liability accounts (accrued payroll, payroll taxes payable, employee deductions), investigating discrepancies and explaining variances.
Ensure accruals are accurate and timely.
Forecast FICA, UI, and percentage-of-wages benefits costs for annual budget.
Ensure appropriate accounting for revenue and receivables.
Reconcile pledge receivables with Development monthly; track collections and aging; coordinate on pledge terms and write-offs.
Partner with Box Office to appropriately reflect show revenue, including deferred revenue, show revenue, ticketing fees, refunds, and adjustments.
Serve as Finance representative for Milwaukee Rep’s Tessitura relationship.
Perform monthly revenue reconciliations across all streams.
Investigate variances and unusual items.
Ensure revenue is recognized in correct accounting periods.
Support management with ad-hoc financial analysis and special projects.
Collaborate with department heads on budget planning and financial planning.
Support grant reporting and compliance requirements.
Serve as backup coverage for various team members during planned leaves and absences.
Additional tasks as assigned.