Payroll Accounting Clerk

About the role

CW Group is seeking a Payroll Accounting Clerk who supports the financial operations of the organization by ensuring payroll is processed accurately and efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain confidential employee master records and files, ensuring accuracy and security.
• Enter and update payroll-related data, including new hires, rehires, terminations, job changes, and rate adjustments.
• Prepare and process regular and off-cycle payrolls for assigned pay groups or companies using a third-party payroll provider.
• Review timesheets, reconcile hours worked, and ensure timely and accurate payroll posting each pay cycle.
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, errors, or omissions in a timely manner.
• Respond to internal and external inquiries related to payroll, including employee questions and third-party requests.
• Maintain and manage access to third-party payroll systems and ensure proper documentation is provided.
• Provide payroll coverage during the absence of other payroll staff, ensuring continuity of operations.
• Scan, file, and organize payroll documents while maintaining confidentiality and compliance with data security protocols.
• Aid in internal and external audits by preparing payroll records and supporting documentation.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in payroll processing or general accounting.
• Proficiency in Payroll transactions and terminology.
• Understanding of payroll processing cycles, tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and compliance requirements.
• Basic knowledge of accounting practices and principles related to payroll.
• Strong numerical skills and the ability to perform accurate calculations related to payroll processing.
• Proficiency in payroll software (such as UKG), and familiarity with general office software, including Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other spreadsheet or accounting tools.
• Ability to adapt to changes in payroll regulations, company policies, and technology.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive payroll information with discretion.

Qualifications

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field.
• Professional certification such as the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) from the American Payroll Association.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and proficiency with spreadsheet or accounting tools.
• Experience using UKG payroll software.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations and compliance requirements.
• Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail in payroll processing and recordkeeping.
• Ability to analyze payroll data, identify discrepancies, and resolve errors efficiently.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet strict deadlines.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for interacting with employees, management, and external teams.
• Ability to troubleshoot payroll issues, resolve discrepancies, and respond to employee inquiries professionally.
• Strong customer service orientation when addressing payroll-related questions or concerns.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and adapt to shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Skills

• Structured work.
• Precision.
• Expertise in payroll processing.
• Confidentiality and ethics.

Benefits

• Access to an Employee Wellness Coordinator and robust wellness program.
• Opportunities for advancement within the organization.
• Employer-sponsored benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance, retirement plan, disability plans, life insurance, paid holidays and vacation, sick and personal time, and voluntary benefits.
• Reasonable accommodations can be provided.

Pay

Compensation ranges from $24.00 to $27.00, based on experience, education, and qualifications.

Schedule

This position is primarily based in a professional office environment. The incumbent is expected to work full-time on-site, performing duties at a desk and utilizing standard office equipment including computers, telephones, printers, and other technology tools. The environment is climate-controlled with moderate noise levels consistent with office operations. Extended Hours: The position may occasionally require work outside of standard business hours, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends, to meet organizational deadlines, participate in meetings, respond to urgent matters, or attend events and conferences. Manual Dexterity: Frequent and sustained use of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, telephone, and other office equipment is required. The role involves repetitive motion and fine motor skills for data entry, document review, and written communication. Visual and Hearing Acuity: Must possess sufficient visual acuity to read detailed documents, analyze spreadsheets, review dashboards, and interpret data displayed on computer screens or in printed form. Adequate hearing is necessary to communicate effectively in both individual and group settings, whether in person, by phone, or via virtual platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Mobility and Physical: The position involves occasional standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting or moving items up to 20 pounds, such as program materials, documents, or presentation equipment. Occasional movement between departments, meeting rooms, and partner sites is required. Confidentiality and Ethics: The role involves handling sensitive information and requires strict adherence to confidentiality protocols and ethical standards.