SENIOR PAYROLL ACCOUNTANT.1721

Chicago Park District•Chicago, IL

12d

About The Position

Under the direction of the Manager of Payroll Operations, the Senior Payroll Accountant prepares bi-weekly payroll-related analysis, processes, and reports for up to 7,000 employees, 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 with payroll policies and adjustments, maintains detailed documentation, and assists with internal and external audits. Duties may be performed with or without reasonable accommodations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
Minimum of five years of experience in accounting or payroll processing.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and ADP systems; strong understanding of payroll software.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
In-depth knowledge of payroll calculations, accounting concepts, and payroll tax regulations.
Strong customer service orientation and ability to manage 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

Perform time entry and 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; respond to employee and vendor inquiries professionally and efficiently.
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 benefit deduction and shortage issues.
Ensure 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 year-to-year carryover.
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, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act.
Voluntary Deferred Compensation Program supplemental retirement plan.
Optional pre-tax transit programs.
Eligibility for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Free admission to most Chicago museums.