Senior Payroll Accountant

TITLE: Senior Payroll Accountant

 

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS:

Under the direction of the Manager of Payroll Operations, the Senior Payroll Accountant prepares bi-weekly payroll-related analysis, processes, and reports for up to 7,000 employees, ensuring compliance with Federal and State regulations. This position manages time entry, reconciles payroll balances, initiates wire transfers, resolves complex payroll-related issues, and prepares quarterly and annual filings, all while maintaining the accuracy and integrity of payroll systems.

 

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

• Time entry and bi-weekly audit for all employees, including specialized groups (Pension, Union Dues, Local 73, Great West, Transamerica).
• Calculate, reconcile, and submit payroll entries and adjustments, including gross/net pay, vacation pay, sick leave, personal days, and acting pay.
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies; respond to employee/vendor inquiries professionally and efficiently.
• Prepare and submit reports to ADP and other third parties; upload payroll file data and tax payments.
• Prepare and reconcile reports for Form 941, IL-941, W-2, WC-3, GITR, and year-end state and federal tax filings.
• Void checks and manage unclaimed payroll check reports; stop payments and reissues as needed.
• Adjust pension files, W-2 forms, and verify sample W-2 data files.
• Maintain quality control procedures and ensure compliance with payroll policies, procedures, and labor contracts.
• Review and reconcile bank statements, check registers, and outstanding check lists.
• Prepare vehicle schedules for W-2 reporting and resolve issues related to benefit deductions and shortages.
• Ensure payroll accuracy through testing, documentation, and system improvements.
• Train and assist employees regarding payroll policies and adjustments.
• Maintain detailed payroll documentation and support internal and external audits.
• Extra task and duties as needed. 

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Minimum of Five (5) years of experience in accounting or payroll processing. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and ADP systems; strong understanding of payroll software. (Oracle Cloud is preferred).  Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: 

In-depth knowledge of payroll calculations, accounting concepts, and payroll tax regulations. Strong customer service orientation and ability to manage confidential data with discretion. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Capable of researching and resolving complex payroll issues with attention to detail.

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

General work area is indoors, in a smoke-free environment, with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting. Perform tasks that involve use of hands to finger, handle or feel, reaching, walking, bending, stooping, standing, kneeling, climbing, reaching and sitting. This position requires continuous sitting at a desk. Performs lifting tasks up to 25 pounds.

 

Disclaimer 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Job duties are to be performed with or without reasonable accommodations. 

BENEFITS: 

As a full-time Chicago Park District employee, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including:  

• Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans.  
• 13-20 days of paid vacation time annually (13 days in first year of employment).  
• 12 days of paid sick time annually which carryover year to year.  
• 4 paid personal days per year.  
• 13 paid holidays per year. 
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave (upon meeting FMLA eligibility). 
• Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees'
• Annuity and Benefit Fund, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act. 
• Deferred Compensation Program – voluntary supplemental retirement plan.  
• Optional pre-tax programs – Transit  
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.  
• Free Admission to most Chicago museums. 

Rate of Pay: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00/annually 

 

Career Service                                    EEO: Professional                             FLSA: Exempt