Staff Accountant / Payroll Compliance Specialist

The Staff Accountant / Payroll Compliance Specialist plays a critical role within the Accounting team at Gilmore Construction by integrating core accounting functions with specialized payroll compliance responsibilities. This position ensures accurate financial reporting, certified payroll compliance, and adherence to federal, state, and local labor regulations for both public and private construction projects. The Specialist collaborates closely with Accounting, Human Resources, Operations, and Project Management to maintain timely payroll compliance and support month-end close activities, audits, and job cost analysis, while continuously enhancing accounting processes to meet evolving business needs.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and submit certified payroll reports for company projects.
• Collect and monitor certified payroll submissions from subcontractors and trade partners.
• Verify prevailing wage classifications, wage rates, fringe benefits, and labor compliance documentation.
• Monitor compliance with Davis-Bacon, Colorado Prevailing Wage, and client labor requirements.
• Review weekly employee timecards for accuracy and prevailing wage compliance.
• Resolve payroll discrepancies through communication with employees, supervisors, and subcontractors.
• Maintain certified payroll records and supporting documentation per contract and regulatory standards.
• Coordinate responses to owner, auditor, and agency inquiries on payroll compliance.
• Stay informed on changes to prevailing wage laws and certified payroll reporting requirements.
• Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close activities.
• Prepare journal entries and supporting documentation.
• Perform balance sheet reconciliations and analyze variances.
• Calculate payroll accruals and maintain recurring accounting entries.
• Maintain fixed asset records, depreciation schedules, and equipment allocations.
• Support job cost analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Assist with annual financial and compliance audits.
• Provide backup for accounts payable, payroll processing, and other accounting functions.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, internal controls, and efficiencies.
• Prepare financial analyses and reports as requested by management.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum three years of accounting experience, preferably in the construction industry.
• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
• Experience with certified payroll, prevailing wage, or labor compliance preferred.
• Understanding of construction accounting, job costing, and payroll processes.
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• High accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to maintain confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Sage 100 Contractor or similar accounting software.
• Experience with LCP Tracker or similar certified payroll software.
• Certified payroll compliance knowledge.