Senior Payroll Analyst & Staff Accountant

Medela•McHenry, IL

10h•$90,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Payroll Analyst & Staff Accountant plays a critical role in supporting a manufacturing organization by ensuring accurate, compliant payroll operations for U.S. and Canadian employees while supporting plant-level accounting, cost controls, and financial close activities. This role partners closely with operations, HR, and third-party providers to maintain payroll accuracy, regulatory compliance, and strong financial controls in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred
Minimum of 3 years of experience in a staff accountant or similar accounting role
Minimum of 3 years of payroll experience, preferably supporting hourly manufacturing workforces
Experience in a manufacturing or distribution environment strongly preferred
Solid understanding of accounts payable processes and internal controls
At least 3 years of experience working with ERP systems (SAP preferred)
Experience supporting multi-entity, multi-location, or global operations
Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and compliance
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven manufacturing environment
Effective communication skills with the ability to work across plant, corporate, and leadership teams
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
Ability to apply logical reasoning to resolve practical accounting and payroll issues

Responsibilities

Manage and oversee end-to-end payroll processing for U.S. and Canadian employees, including hourly and salaried populations
Serve as the primary point of contact for third-party payroll processors
Support payroll tax filings, inquiries, and compliance at the federal, state, and local levels
Manage state payroll reporting and year-end payroll requirements
Coordinate and support annual Workers’ Compensation audits and related reporting
Assist with monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes in accordance with company and regulatory requirements
Prepare and post recurring and non-recurring journal entries
Perform balance sheet reconciliations with a strong focus on accuracy, audit readiness, and internal controls
Maintain fixed asset records, including capitalization, depreciation, and asset disposals for plant equipment
Prepare and file sales and use tax returns
Maintain tax exemption certificates and support tax audits
Assist with additional indirect tax and compliance activities as needed
Process vendor invoices accurately and in accordance with purchasing and receiving controls
Review weekly vendor payment runs for accuracy and proper authorization
Resolve invoice discrepancies in coordination with procurement and plant operations
Serve as backup for accounts payable processing to support business continuity
Conduct expense report compliance audits and provide training to employees
Maintain vendor master data in ERP systems
Prepare and analyze monthly accounts payable and spend metrics to support cost control initiatives
Administer corporate credit card programs
Prepare and file annual 1099 reporting
Perform customs duties reconciliation for imported materials or equipment
Manage unclaimed property reporting
Support internal and external audits, including SOX-related activities if applicable
Assist with cross-functional projects and continuous improvement initiatives