Accountant I (Payroll) – Southern California Regional Rail Authority – Los Angeles, CA

Job title: Accountant I (Payroll) Company: Southern California Regional Rail Authority Job description: SUMMARY PURPOSE OF POSITION The Accountant I (Payroll) will process payroll and perform a variety of accounting activities including accounts receivable, accounts payable and general accounting with dual responsibilities that align with payroll and general accounting functions. TO APPLY: This is a continuous recruitment with the first review of applications beginning October 18, 2022. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is the entry level in the accountant series. At this level, assignments are generally limited in scope and are performed within a procedural framework established by higher-level employees. SUPERVISION EXERCISED AND RECEIVED • Receives general supervision from departmental supervisory roles • No formal supervisory responsibilities ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The duties listed below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and are not to be interpreted as an exhaustive list of responsibilities. • Accurate and timely production of the payroll for all SCRRA employees. • Maintain payroll information by collecting, calculating and entering data. • Update payroll records by entering changes in exemptions, authorized deductions, etc. • Analyze changes for each employee based on authorized input from Human Resources. • Review the timekeeping system for accuracy of employee input for project accounting, special pay (holiday, jury, etc.), and timeliness. • Review timekeeping approval for appropriate levels of management. • Resolve payroll discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information. • Monitor payroll processing software systems (timekeeping and payroll calculations) to ensure operational accuracy, functionality and access authorization. • Work closely with Chief People Officer and Chief Finance Officer for confidential termination and settlement pay process and execution. • Manage the Fleet Assignment tax recording for employees with Authority vehicles assignment and ensure appropriate accounting and reporting. • Determine payroll liabilities by calculating employees' federal and state income taxes, and employer's portions of taxes, insurance and pensions. • Process annual Paid Time Off (PTO) calculations and ensure compliance with current Human Resources and Finance Policy and Procedure. • Perform periodic audits of payroll issuance to ensure compliance with GAAP internal control procedures. • Prepare reports by compiling summaries of overtime, pay classifications (employee, special services employee, temporary, intern, etc.). • Prepare data for annual State Controller's Income Report based on foundation information provided by Human Resources. • Provide orientation timekeeping training for new employees to ensure timely and accurate input of time each period. • Provide guidance and proactive direction to employees for bi-weekly calendar associated with each payroll. • Create periodic files for uploading to Oracle financial system. • Ensure the provision of accurate information in answering questions and requests. • Coordinate the funding of each payroll with management approval. • Assist in the coordination of annual W-2 reconciliation and issuance. • Create documentation to support all payroll related payments and secure approval for processing timely for each pay period. • Maintain payroll operations by following policies and procedures and recommending changes for continuous process improvement. • Protect payroll operations and data by keeping information confidential. • Reconcile all payroll data timely and accurately. • Provide superior customer service to internal and external customers. • Contribute to team effort by proactive involvement in general accounting. • Prepare monthly reconciliations on balance sheet accounts. • Perform related accounts payable duties. • Create journal entries. • Reconcile monthly inventory records with material management. • Handle check requests and specialized transactions. • Create, edit and process transactions to support the general ledger. • Prepare schedules for monthly closing cycles and fiscal year end. • Complete special projects and assignments. • Perform other related duties as assigned. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Education and Experience • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, or a related field. • A minimum of four (4) years of work experience with an electronic timekeeping and payroll processing system. • A combination of training, education and or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be considered when determining minimum qualifications. Advanced relevant coursework may also substitute for a portion of required experience. • A valid class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record of no more than three moving violations and no DUI's within the last three years Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of: • Principles and practices of payroll accounting and budgeting. • Business arithmetic and statistical preparation and presentation methods and procedures. Skilled in: • Data entry • Use of Microsoft Office products and other applicable accounting software • Use of ADP and Empower Ability to: • Prioritize and simultaneously work on multiple tasks • Identify, monitor, and track complex trends and patterns • Make decisions in accordance with established policies and procedures. • Handle confidential employee and administrative information with tact and discretion. • Effectively communicate both verbally and in writing PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS • Transition between a stationary position at a desk or work location and move about Metrolink facilities or other work site locations • Operate tools to perform the duties of the position; such as computers, office equipment and work-related machinery • Transport equipment or boxes up to 25lbs • Exchange ideas by means of communication • Visual acuity to detect, identify and observe employees or train movement and any barriers to movement when working on or near railroad tracks • Hear and perceive the nature of sounds when working on or near railroad tracks • Balance, ascend/descend, climb, kneel, stoop, bend, crouch or crawl within assigned working conditions and or locations Working Conditions Position requires work in a normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise, dust, or temperature. Based on job duties, work may also be conducted in outdoor environments, at construction sites, railroad track and right-of-way environments, and warehouse environments, with possible exposure to individuals who are hostile or irate, moving mechanical parts, and loud noises (85+ decibels, such as trains, heavy trucks, construction, etc.). Southern California Regional Rail Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Authority will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Selection Process: Following a review of resumes and/or applications, the most highly qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process. Eligible applicants will be notified of the exact time and place of assessments and interview. Candidates will be interviewed to determine their relative knowledge, skills and ability in job related areas. Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a reference check, including degree verification and criminal records check provided through SCRRA. Internal Candidates: Employees with active discipline as defined in the HR Policy No. 5.3 Positive Discipline Program and/or with performance that does not meet the standard for "meets expectations" as defined in the Performance Planning and Appraisal Process may be precluded from consideration and placement in the position. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the SCRRA will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. The SCRRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EEO/ADA Expected salary: $63439 - 99113 per year Location: Los Angeles, CA Job date: Mon, 24 Oct 2022 05:19:42 GMT Apply for the job now!