Position Summary: The Payroll Specialist & Staff Accountant processes the semi-monthly payroll, calculates Loan Officers’ commissions, performs bank and general ledger reconciliations, documents processes and procedures, prepares journal entries, helps with month-end and yearend closings, and assists Accounting with other tasks as assigned. Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities: + Responsible for the processing of semi-monthly payroll with the banks payroll vendor in compliance with all applicable laws and bank policies and procedures. + Provides customer service and answers employee questions on pay, expense reimbursements, deductions and earnings. + Manages employee accruals ensuring balances are accurate. + Prepares final paychecks for terminated employees in accordance with state and federal laws. + Prepares and maintains process documentation, procedures and checklists for payroll and accounting procedures as directed to ensure appropriate controls are in place. + Works with Human Resources Department to ensure benefit deductions are accurate and premium arrears are recovered. + Prepares and sends commission reports to employees prior to each payroll. + Manages Fixed Assets and monthly depreciation. + Supports month end close process. + Performs account reconciliations including, but not limited to cash, prepaid expenses and payroll, and resolves any discrepancies promptly. + Assist with internal and external audits related to payroll by providing necessary documentation and explanations as required. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: + Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles + Knowledge of payroll processing and reporting + Knowledge of payroll and accounting systems + Intermediate knowledge and skill with Excel and Microsoft Office applications + Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information Education and Experience: An associate or higher degree with an accounting emphasis or equivalent experience and training in a related area. Mental and Physical Effort: Decision making involves important choices in applying rules, regulations, policies and procedures to the work that needs to be made without regular supervision or approval. Lifting equipment or files of 1-10 pounds on a regular basis, lifting equipment or boxes of 10-25 pounds on an occasion. Sits or stands for long periods of time working at a computer and typing. Uses hands to handle controls or feel objects, tools or controls. Audio/Visual: Ability to accurately interpret sounds and associated meanings at a volume consistent with interpersonal conversation. Regularly required to accurately perceive, distinguish and interpret information received visually and through audio, e.g., words, numbers and other data broadcasted aloud/viewed on a screen, as well as print and other media. Working Conditions: Works in an office environment or home office with minimal workplace hazards and moderate levels of noise. Works during the day but may also need to be available occasionally on nights and weekends. Regular travel to other worksites may be required. Occasional travel to conferences, training or meetings may be required. Qualifications