Payroll Accountant | Village of Park Forest

Position Summary

This is responsible accounting work compiling payroll, accounting and related data and reports. Work involves the responsibility for processing, verifying and recording payroll information within the framework of established procedures, policies, rules and regulations governing the recording and reporting of payroll transactions. Performs duties of benefits administration as directed. Work is to be completed independently and requires considerable initiative and judgment in resolving standard payroll situations. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Assistant Finance Director. Internal and external audit procedures are established. This position will experience contact with internal staff members and the general public.

Position Accountabilities

• Enter high volume of numerical and text data into payroll software and spreadsheets.
• Enter information in payroll software for salary and classification changes, deductions, tax withholdings, etc.
• Import payroll hours from Time and Attendance software, review wages computed, correct errors to ensure accuracy of payroll, prepare and issue paychecks.
• Process wage assignments and garnishments.
• Ensure data input is accurate, complete and timely.
• Analyze, research and resolve issues and discrepancies timely and efficiently.
• Prepare vouchers for payroll liabilities and reconcile liabilities to the general ledger.
• Process forms online (e.g. IMRF, insurance, 457, etc) and changes in coverage, explain benefit options to employees; assist employees in resolving issues related to benefits as needed.
• Serve as a resource for information about benefits, payroll and retirement issues.
• Calculate employee benefit time accruals for new hires, leaves of absence, terminations and retirements from Village.
• Prepare payroll tax returns quarterly and annually (e.g. 941, UI3/40, W-2, I 095-c etc.) to comply with Federal and State requirements.
• Maintain accurate office records, financial files; prepare summary and statistical financial reports. Create, maintain & update a variety of files (e.g. employee, excel files, breaks in service, pension contributions). Research and verify information as requested.
• Understand and implement IRS rules related to fringe benefit processing (e.g. auto use, pedometer program, life insurance greater than $50K, ACA etc) and IRS rules related to taxes.
• Notify retirees of any changes including medical and dental rates. Maintain stipend spreadsheet for eligible retirees.
• Interact closely and provide support (back up) to Personnel department staff.
• Participate in annual budget and audit preparation.
• Prepare annual Illinois Department of Insurance (DOI) reports for the public safety pension funds.
• Assist other personnel for the purpose of supporting them in the completion of their work as needed.
• Knowledge of or ability to research and adhere to payroll laws.
• Respond to written and verbal inquiries from supervisors, the public, vendors and other departments in a timely and professional manner (e.g. employment verifications, garnishments, surveys, payroll processes, FOIA requests etc.).
• Type correspondence, reports, forms, notices and other materials.
• Identify appropriate source for responses and calculations (show work).
• Document and update the payroll process.
• Maintain a safe work area, equipment and promptly report all work hazards.
• Report all work related injuries immediately, comply with all safety rules and attend appropriate safety programs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Position Qualifications/Skills

• Requires five plus years of recent, direct and comprehensive payroll experience. Also requires working knowledge with payroll tax filing and tax notice resolution. Minimum education of graduation from high school or GED required. Associates or bachelors degree a plus. The Village may accept a combination of training and experience which provide equivalent knowledge, abilities and skills.
• Considerable knowledge of modem accounting practices, procedures and methods.
• Considerable knowledge of automated accounting systems and their use in assigned areas.
• Three years of experience in a government organization preferred but not required.

Critical Mental/Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform payroll related duties requiring independent judgment and initiative under the stress of strict deadlines.
• Ability to multi-task and possess strong organizational skills.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to proficiently use financial software programs and spreadsheets.
• Ability to analyze variances in order to review payroll.
• Ability to research, read and interpret documents such as state and federal correspondence and tax notices.
• Ability to maintain complex accounting records and correctly apply accounting practices.
• Ability to perform detailed work efficiently and accurately and to initiate and assure necessary follow up is completed.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to make arithmetic calculations rapidly and accurately.
• Skill in the operation of office machines, typewriter and computer software.
• Ability to be flexible and adaptable to change.

Working Conditions

• The majority of work is performed in a normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise, dust, temperature, etc.
• At times, the job may require prolonged sitting, typing, monitoring of a screen, etc.  The job incumbent should exercise common sense and take necessary breaks, practice proper body alignment, and alert a supervisor of any discomfort, as necessary.

Salary range

Starting salary for this position is $60,624 -$79,833 depending on qualifications. 

Benefits

Medical, dental, life insurance, IMRF pension, Wellness program