Senior Payroll Accountant.1721

Chicago Park District•Chicago, IL

11d

About The Position

Under the direction of the Manager of Payroll Operations, the Senior Payroll Accountant prepares bi-weekly payroll-related analyses, processes, and reports for up to 7,000 employees while ensuring compliance with Federal and State regulations. The position manages time entry, reconciles payroll balances, initiates wire transfers, resolves complex payroll-related issues, and prepares quarterly and annual filings while maintaining the accuracy and integrity of payroll systems. The role also supports employees and vendors with payroll inquiries, maintains detailed documentation, assists with audits, and helps ensure payroll processes comply with applicable policies, procedures, and labor contracts. Work is performed in an indoor, smoke-free environment with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting. The position requires continuous desk sitting and may involve lifting up to 25 pounds. Duties are performed with or without reasonable accommodations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
At least five years of experience in accounting or payroll processing.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and ADP systems, with a strong understanding of payroll software.
In-depth knowledge of payroll calculations, accounting concepts, and payroll tax regulations.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Strong customer service orientation and ability to handle confidential data with discretion.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to research and resolve complex payroll issues with attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Oracle Cloud.

Responsibilities

Enter time and conduct bi-weekly audits for all employees, including specialized groups such as Pension, Union Dues, Local 73, Great West, and Transamerica.
Calculate, reconcile, and submit payroll entries and adjustments, including gross and net pay, vacation pay, sick leave, personal days, and acting pay.
Research and resolve payroll discrepancies and respond professionally and efficiently to employee and vendor inquiries.
Prepare and submit reports to ADP and other third parties; upload payroll file data and tax payments.
Prepare and reconcile reports for Form 941, IL-941, W-2, WC-3, GITR, and year-end state and federal tax filings.
Void checks and manage unclaimed payroll check reports; arrange stop payments and reissues as needed.
Adjust pension files and W-2 forms, and verify sample W-2 data files.
Maintain quality-control procedures and ensure compliance with payroll policies, procedures, and labor contracts.
Review and reconcile bank statements, check registers, and outstanding check lists.
Prepare vehicle schedules for W-2 reporting and resolve issues related to benefit deductions and shortages.
Support payroll accuracy through testing, documentation, and system improvements.
Train and assist employees regarding payroll policies and adjustments.
Maintain detailed payroll documentation and support internal and external audits.
Perform additional tasks and duties as needed.

Benefits

Competitive group insurance benefits, including health, life, dental, and vision plans.
13–20 days of paid vacation annually; 13 days in the first year of employment.
12 days of paid sick time annually, with carryover from year to year.
Four paid personal days per year.
13 paid holidays per year.
12 weeks of paid parental leave upon meeting FMLA eligibility.
Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees' Annuity and Benefit Fund, covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act.
Voluntary Deferred Compensation Program supplemental retirement plan.
Optional pre-tax programs.
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.
Free admission to most Chicago museums.