Accounting Specialist

Job Title: Accounting Specialist
Location: Oakland, CA 
Employment Type: Full-Time

About the Role
Direct Counsel is seeking an experienced Accounting Specialist to support a dynamic and fast-paced professional services environment. This role partners closely with firm leadership and the accounting team to ensure the accurate and efficient execution of payroll and accounts payable functions. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, and capable of managing sensitive information with discretion while maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll

• Process semi-monthly and off-cycle payroll using the firm’s HRIS system (e.g., Dayforce), ensuring accuracy in compensation and deductions
• Review and validate timesheets prior to payroll processing
• Administer wage garnishments, levies, and other court-ordered payments in compliance with applicable regulations
• Maintain and update employee payroll records, including new hires, terminations, and status changes
• Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies, including benefit deductions and withholding issues
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries with professionalism and timeliness
• Prepare and deliver monthly payroll reports to senior leadership
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and maintain strict confidentiality of employee information

Accounts Payable

• Process daily accounts payable transactions, including vendor invoice review and payment execution
• Set up and maintain vendor records
• Review and reconcile employee expense reports and corporate credit card statements in accordance with firm policies
• Prepare checks and coordinate approvals for vendor payments, including trust-related disbursements
• Support month-end and year-end close processes with accuracy and timeliness

Additional Responsibilities

• Maintain organized financial records and documentation
• Collaborate cross-functionally with accounting, HR, and operations teams
• Perform other accounting and finance-related duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in payroll and accounts payable
• Experience in a law firm or professional services environment strongly preferred
• Familiarity with accounting and HRIS systems (e.g., Dayforce, SurePoint preferred)
• Strong understanding of payroll regulations and compliance requirements
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proven ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism

What We’re Looking For

• A collaborative team player who works effectively across all levels of an organization
• Highly organized with strong problem-solving capabilities
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining high-quality work standards under pressure

Compensation
The hourly pay range for this position is $43.94 – $52.88, depending on experience, qualifications, and skill set.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Direct Counsel is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable laws.