Payroll and Accounting Specialist

Payroll & Accounting Specialist

North Mankato, MN

Job Purpose

The Payroll & Accounting Specialist plays a key role in supporting accurate payroll processing and accounting operations for Palmer Bus Service. This position will work closely with our current Payroll Specialist to learn company payroll processes, systems, and procedures, with the opportunity to transition into the primary payroll role in the future.

This position supports payroll operations for 1,500 employees across 30 locations while also assisting with accounts payable, journal entries, reconciliations, and general accounting functions. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage confidential information with accuracy and professionalism.

Duties and Responsibilities

Our growing company is hiring a Payroll & Accounting Specialist to join our team. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced payroll or accounting professional to grow within the organization and develop into a key role supporting payroll and accounting operations.

Responsibilities include:

• Assist with accurate and timely payroll processing for 1,500 employees across multiple locations
• Work closely with the current Payroll Specialist to learn payroll processes, procedures, reporting, and compliance requirements
• Learn company payroll systems and processes with the opportunity to transition into the primary payroll role in the future
• Utilize Paylocity payroll software to maintain employee information, process payroll, and generate reports
• Assist with payroll reporting, audits, reconciliations, and payroll-related inquiries
• Assist with payroll tax preparation and documentation
• Prepare journal entries and assist with month-end and year-end close processes
• Perform general ledger account reconciliations
• Assist with accounts payable functions, including invoice review, coding, and processing
• Communicate with vendors and internal departments regarding invoices, approvals, and payment status
• Research and resolve outstanding payable items and employee reimbursement questions
• Reconcile corporate credit card transactions
• Review invoices and statements to ensure accuracy and proper documentation
• Prepare reports and spreadsheets for supervisors and managers
• Maintain accurate accounting records and supporting documentation
• Assist with process improvements and documentation
• Maintain confidentiality of payroll, employee, and company financial information
• Perform special projects and additional accounting duties as assigned

Qualifications

• 2 years of payroll, accounting, bookkeeping, or related financial experience preferred
• Payroll processing experience strongly preferred
• Experience with Paylocity or similar payroll software preferred
• Experience with accounts payable, journal entries, and reconciliations preferred
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and payroll practices
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent organizational and analytical skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently while also being a strong team player
• Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and accounting software
• Experience with QuickBooks preferred

Career Opportunity

This position provides a unique opportunity for long-term growth within Palmer Bus Service. The successful candidate will work alongside an experienced Payroll Specialist, gain valuable knowledge of our payroll and accounting processes, and have the opportunity to transition into a key payroll role supporting our growing organization.