Payroll & Accounts Payable Specialist

About Company:

At Child Development Resources (CDR), we believe every child deserves a strong start. We are a mission-driven nonprofit providing high-quality, inclusive early childhood education that nurtures the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually. If you're passionate about making a difference and want a role that combines purpose with an exceptional work-life balance, we invite you to join our team. 

About the role:

The Payroll & Accounts Payable Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring the accurate and timely processing of employee payroll and vendor payments within the organization. This position is responsible for maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations while managing accounts payable functions to support the company’s financial health. The specialist will collaborate closely with HR, finance, and external vendors to resolve discrepancies and improve payment processes. By maintaining detailed records and generating reports, this role supports audit readiness and financial transparency. Ultimately, the Payroll & Accounts Payable Specialist contributes to the smooth operation of financial workflows, enhancing employee satisfaction and vendor relationships.

What you will do:

• Process and verify employee payroll data, including hours worked, deductions, and benefits, ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable laws.
• Manage accounts payable activities by reviewing, coding, and processing vendor invoices and expense reports in a timely manner.
• Reconcile payroll and accounts payable transactions, resolving discrepancies and responding to inquiries from employees and vendors.
• Maintain organized records of payroll and payment documentation to support internal controls and audit requirements.
• Collaborate with HR and finance teams to update payroll systems, implement process improvements, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Prepare and submit required payroll tax filings and reports to government agencies.
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing activities related to payroll and accounts payable.

What you will bring:

• High school diploma or equivalent; Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in payroll processing and accounts payable functions.
• Proficiency with payroll software and accounting systems (e.g., ADP, QuickBooks, or similar).
• Strong understanding of payroll regulations, tax laws, and accounts payable best practices.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration.
• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle.
• Certification in payroll (e.g., Certified Payroll Professional) or accounting (e.g., CPA, CMA).
• Knowledge of advanced Excel functions and data analysis techniques.
• Experience working in a multi-state payroll environment.

Important skills that you will have:

The Payroll & Accounts Payable Specialist utilizes strong analytical and numerical skills daily to ensure accurate payroll calculations and timely vendor payments. Attention to detail is essential when reviewing invoices, reconciling accounts, and maintaining compliance with tax regulations. Effective communication skills are used to collaborate with internal teams and external vendors, resolving any payment or payroll discrepancies efficiently. Proficiency with payroll and accounting software enables the specialist to streamline processes and generate accurate financial reports. Additionally, problem-solving skills help identify process improvements that enhance overall financial operations.

Why Work at CDR? 

When you join CDR, you’re not just starting a job—you’re joining a supportive, community-focused team where your work truly matters. We offer a competitive total compensation package, generous paid time off, and the opportunity to impact lives every single day. 

Mission-Driven Work: Every role supports children, families, and the staff who serve them

Supportive Culture: Join a collaborative, respectful, and caring team

Outstanding Benefits: Generous leave, paid holidays, health/dental/vision insurance, and retirement plans

Stability & Impact: A vital role that directly supports daily operations and long-term success

Work-Life Balance: We value responsiveness while recognizing the importance of balance

CDR is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug-Free Workplace