Finance- Accounting & Payroll Specialist

Birmingham Zoo Inc. (BZI) is a nonprofit, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited Zoo and regional tourist attraction serving the greater Birmingham community and beyond. We advance wildlife conservation through responsible animal care, education, and local and global conservation efforts in support of our mission, Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World.

About the role

The Accounting and Payroll Coordinator supports accounting operations and coordinates payroll processes, including bi-weekly payroll processing, payroll tax reporting, and related financial activities. This role contributes to accurate financial recordkeeping, compliance with applicable regulations, and efficient day-to-day finance operations. All employees serve as ambassadors of the Zoo and are expected to act in a professional manner consistent with the Zoo’s mission and its core values of Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Stewardship, and Inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Supports accounting operations, including cash management, revenue recording, reconciliations, and financial reporting, ensuring accurate and consistent financial processes.
• Contributes to month-end closing and reporting including bank reconciliations, balance sheet reconciliations, transaction entries, and event profit and loss statements while maintaining traceable records of all transactions.
• Coordinates and processes payroll activities, including timekeeping review, payroll preparation, tax reporting, and administration of deductions and benefits in compliance with applicable laws and policies.
• Collaborates with the Accounting Manager and Director of Human Resources (dotted-line support) to help complete month-end duties, alignment of payroll, benefits, onboarding, and compliance-related processes.
• Maintains employee and financial records, supports audits and regulatory reporting, and prepares required documentation for internal and external reporting needs.
• Provides training and support to staff on payroll and timekeeping systems and serves as a resource for payroll, benefits, and related inquiries.
• Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and applicable departmental guidelines.
• Provides functional leadership through training, guidance, and reinforcement of established protocols to support consistency in daily operations.
• Serves as a resource and point of contact for staff, supporting adherence to operational, safety, and Organizational standards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent is required; some college coursework is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• General accounting knowledge and experience with accounting software is preferred.
• Approximately two years of experience in payroll, human resources information systems, or related work is preferred; experience with payroll and financial systems is a plus.
• Demonstrates knowledge of basic accounting principles and practices, with general knowledge of creating journal entries and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Demonstrates knowledge of payroll processes and compliance practices and experience with human resources information systems (e.g., Paycom, ADP, or similar platforms).
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft products, especially Excel.
• Communicates clearly and respectfully and collaborates effectively with others to meet deadlines and support operational needs.
• Demonstrates organization, attention to detail, and critical thinking, with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities and maintain confidentiality.
• May be required to operate Zoo-owned vehicles (including golf carts), powered equipment, and/or ride or attraction systems. Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record in accordance with Zoo policy. A pre-employment Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check will be conducted, and an annual MVR review is required.
• May be required to travel on occasion.

Schedule

Work schedules are based on operational needs and may include any combination of weekdays, weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events. Employees may be required to work during emergency situations or unusual operational circumstances.

Safety and Physical Demands

• This position may involve exposure to hazards common to an office environment, with occasional work in outdoor or operational areas of the Zoo.
• Specific training and procedures will be provided to maintain safety of people as the highest priority, followed by the safety of the animal collection.
• Use and understanding of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required based on assigned tasks and work locations.
• Employees are required to follow all Zoo safety policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Emergency Procedure Manual and to promptly report injuries, incidents, or safety concerns through established reporting channels.
• Ability to perform desk-based and computer-related tasks, including use of hands, fingers, and standard office equipment.
• Ability to sit or remain stationary for extended periods, with occasional standing, walking, or movement between locations.
• Ability to communicate effectively, including exchanging information with others.
• Ability to occasionally move, lift, or carry items up to 20 pounds.
• Ability to navigate outdoor and operational areas of the Zoo as needed, which may include uneven surfaces and varying environmental conditions.