Payroll Accountant

About the role

The Payroll Accountant supports payroll and accounting operations for the YMCA of the Triangle under the direction of the Director of Payroll and Grant Administration. This role manages bi-weekly payroll, maintains payroll records, processes reimbursements and refunds, assists with federal and state filings, and performs CRM-based accounting tasks, grant documentation, and accounts receivable management. The position collaborates with internal teams to ensure accurate financial processes and aligns with the YMCA’s mission, goals, and policies.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll accurately and on schedule for multiple EINs using the UKG Ready HRIS system.
• Support benefits administration, including health insurance, 403(b), 401(a), 457(b), bonuses, separation pay, and other employee benefits through payroll deductions and distributions.
• Maintain general ledger entries related to payroll.
• Process part-time employee expense reimbursement requests.
• Store and retrieve payroll documents securely.
• Maintain Excel spreadsheets for deductions, benefits, and other payroll data.
• Serve as a resource for Branch/Camp staff by responding to calls and emails promptly while maintaining confidentiality.
• Administer payroll services such as direct deposit, wage verification, garnishments, off-cycle checks, and escheats; monitor the dedicated payroll inbox.
• Assist with quarterly and annual filings, including W-2 processing and federal/state tax forms.
• Support annual fringe benefits and dependent care assistance programs, ensuring proper taxation and reconciliation with CRM software.
• Assist in creating budgets for grant proposals and organize documentation for grant requirements and reimbursement requests.
• Process customer refunds weekly using CRM software and verify product codes for general ledger alignment and revenue recognition.
• Complete required annual trainings related to safety, compliance, and child protection.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Degree in accounting, finance, or a related field preferred; 3+ years of experience in payroll or accounting, or equivalent.
• Experience with general accounting responsibilities, including general ledger, accounts receivable, and accounts payable.
• Proficiency with payroll and customer database systems; experience with UKG Ready, NetSuite, PowerBI, and Personify CRM is preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with payroll compliance, tax reporting (e.g., W-2s, 1099s, garnishments), HRIS implementation, and nonprofit accounting practices is a plus.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.
• Strong communication skills, including written, verbal, and public-facing interactions.
• Demonstrated initiative, sound judgment, and strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Commitment to building inclusive, mission-driven relationships with diverse youth, families, and community members.
• Experience supporting organizational initiatives and staff development in a team-based, service-oriented environment.
• Ability to coordinate projects, workflows, and schedules effectively in a dynamic setting.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills are preferred but not required.