Senior Accountant-Payroll & General Ledger

JOB SUMMARY:

The Senior Accountant – Payroll & General Ledger is responsible for maintaining the accuracy and integrity of payroll, cash, and general ledger accounting activities. This role ensures timely recording of payroll, benefits, and cash transactions, prepares journal entries, maintains fixed assets, and supports month-end close and audit processes. The position works closely with the Senior Director of Finance, HR, and other accounting staff to ensure compliance with internal controls and accurate financial reporting.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Cash and General Ledger Accounting (25%)

• Monitor daily cash activity and ensure transactions are recorded timely and accurately

• Record bank sweep activity, bank fees, and interest income

• Record monthly entries related to Shop AFA and other operational activity

• Ensure accounts receivable and payroll cash activity are properly reflected in the general ledger

Payroll and Benefits Accounting (30%)

• Oversee payroll processing performed by staff or temporary support

• Prepare bi-weekly payroll journal entries

• Record benefits and 401k-related journal entries and allocations

• Review and fund retirement plan contributions

• Create monthly benefit allocations (Aetna, MetLife, Flores, etc.)

• Work with HR to ensure payroll and benefits data are accurate and complete

Balance Sheet Reconciliations and Close (20%)

• Reconcile payroll and Payflex bank accounts

• Ensure all payroll and benefits-related accounts are reconciled monthly

• Record prepaid expenses and ensure proper amortization

• Support the monthly close process and ensure accurate period posting

Fixed Assets (5%)

• Maintain fixed asset schedules

• Record depreciation and ensure proper classification of capital assets

Audit and Compliance (10%)

• Prepare audit schedules related to payroll, benefits, and fixed assets

• Support 401k audit and compliance requirements

• Assist with audit requests as needed

Systems and Process Support (10%)

• Serve as system owner for Intacct

• Ensure data integrity and proper system usage

• Support process improvements and internal controls

Other Duties as assigned

• Provide advice, support, reports to program managers and other staff as situations require.

REQUIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience Required

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, or a related field.

• At least 5 years of related experience.

Education and Experience Preferred

• Experience with payroll accounting and nonprofit organizations

Certifications & Licenses Required

• None

Certifications & Licenses Preferred

• CPA or CPA candidate preferred

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies Required

• Strong understanding of general ledger accounting, payroll, and financial reporting

• Experience with Sage Intacct or similar accounting systems

• Experience with ADP Workforce Now or similar payroll systems

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• High attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines

• Excellent communication and organizational skills

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

COMPENSATION:

AFA has a generous employee benefits package in addition to cash compensation.  Our hiring range for this role is $82,720 - $97,500.  More experienced candidates are invited to apply and you are encouraged to add your salary requirements in answer to our application. Thank you for your interest in AFA, we look forward to learning more about you.

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

Works out of Air & Space Forces Association’s headquarters in Arlington, VA. Office hours required are an eight-hour day. Operates in a professional office environment with travel to local offices, community partners, and events. Routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Must be able to work overtime and travel as needed