Position Summary
The Payroll and Tax Specialist is responsible for all aspects of the payroll functions of the organization, ensuring pay is processed on time, accurately and in compliance with government regulations. Works closely with the Benefits Administrator to maintain accurate employee records related to payroll. Provides support to external auditors for fiscal year end and retirement plan audits.
Essential Job Duties
- Prepares and processes payroll and updates accounting systems to ensure the accurate processing of payroll transactions including; salaries, benefits, garnishments, taxes and other deductions for Institute employees.
- Processes monthly stipend payments to Institute scholars in accordance with tax treaties and government regulations.
- Prepares and maintains various monthly remittance accounts including; retirement, medical, life/disability insurances and benefit expense accounts.
- Maintain and update scholar fellowship information, including those with non-resident alien status, and coordinates updates for employee information with the benefits administrator.
- Prepares and maintains accurate records and reports of payroll transactions and reconciles balance sheet related payroll accounts quarterly.
- Prepares transactions related to voids, call-backs from financial institutions, reissuing checks and special checks
- Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage and hour laws, legislative mandates and best practices.
- Audits monthly, quarterly and annual payroll related tax returns, W2 and 1095 year-end returns filed on behalf of the Institute.
- Processes and files 1042S year-end tax returns.
- Provides support for the annual audits of the Institute’s financial statements and retirement plans under ERISA.
- Prepares and processes payroll related tasks for both the fiscal and calendar year-end closings. Produces journal entries, reports and spreadsheets, as required or as requested.
- Assists employees with inquiries related to time and attendance or other payroll related policies.
- Identifies and recommends updates to payroll accounting software systems and procedures. Serves as the subject matter expert on all systems related to payroll and related withholdings.
All other duties as assigned by the (supervisor) (10%)
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field required
- At least 5 years of related payroll experience
- Extensive knowledge of payroll functions including preparation, balancing, internal controls and payroll taxes and general ledger accounting
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Must be able to handle confidential information
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, HRIS related software and accounting systems
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Paylocity
- Working knowledge of non-resident alien taxation regulations
Supervisory Responsibilities
- None
Working Conditions
- Must be able to remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods of time.
The Institute for Advanced Study retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position at any time.
To perform this role successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
For consideration, please apply with a cover letter and resume.