Senior Payroll Accountant

Senior Payroll Accountant
Weis Restaurant Group

Position Summary:
The Senior Payroll Accountant is responsible for leading and overseeing the full payroll function for Weis Restaurant Group. This includes multi-state payroll processing, compliance, reporting, reconciliation, and audit support. This role ensures payroll is processed accurately, timely, and in compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.

In addition to payroll processing, this position supports payroll-related administrative workflows, processes employee pay changes and promotions, and prepares post-payroll reporting to support Finance with journal entries and financial reporting.

This role operates with a service-oriented mindset and serves as a primary payroll resource for employees, leadership, and cross-functional teams. The Senior Payroll Accountant partners closely with Finance and Human Resources to ensure payroll accuracy, strong internal controls, and compliance across all markets.

Essential Job Functions:

Payroll Processing & Compliance:

• Oversee and manage payroll across all locations and states of operation

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws and payroll tax regulations

• Process and/or review semi-monthly, off-cycle, and bonus payrolls

• Maintain accurate payroll records and documentation

• Support internal and external audits, including year-end reporting (W-2s, payroll tax filings)

• Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll-related questions and escalations

Accounting & Reporting:

• Prepare payroll-related journal entries and complete account reconciliations

• Assist with month-end close, including payroll accruals

• Provide reporting and support to Finance for financial reporting and analysis

Process Improvement & Systems:

• Identify and implement improvements to payroll processes, accuracy, and internal controls

• Support payroll integration for acquisitions, new locations, and system changes

• Ensure accurate configuration of earnings codes, deductions, and tax settings within ProLiant

Payroll Administration:

• Monitor and manage the payroll inbox, responding to inquiries in a timely manner

• Process employee pay changes, promotions, and transfers

• Partner with HR to ensure accuracy of employee data, pay rates, and deductions

• Maintain payroll documentation in accordance with company and audit requirements

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field

• 6 years of progressive payroll or payroll accounting experience

• 3–5 years of multi-state payroll experience required

• Experience in a multi-location or restaurant environment preferred

Certifications (Preferred):

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)

• CPA or CPA-track experience a plus

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of payroll accounting, reconciliations, and internal controls

• High attention to detail with strong analytical skills

• Ability to identify discrepancies and resolve issues proactively

• Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple deadlines

• Clear and professional communication skills

• Ability to work cross-functionally with HR, Finance, and Operations

• High level of discretion and confidentiality

• Ownership mindset with focus on accuracy and accountability

Work Environment:

• Remote position

Schedule & Availability:

• Schedule may vary based on business needs

• Flexibility required, including occasional early mornings, evenings, or weekends

Other Duties:
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties may evolve based on business needs.

Equal Employment Opportunity:
Weis Restaurant Group is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.