Senior Payroll & Accounting Specialist

Grace Dougan Consulting is a boutique accounting and advisory firm based in Novato, CA. We serve a portfolio of small and mid-size business clients across industries, providing outsourced accounting, payroll, and financial management services. Our team operates as a partner with each client and we customize our services based on what the client is looking for. This is a hybrid remote and in person full time position. The Role We are looking for a well-rounded accounting professional with deep payroll expertise and genuine fluency across the full accounting function. This is not a narrowly defined payroll-only role — you will own payroll from end to end while also contributing meaningfully to monthly close, accrual-basis financials, sales tax filings, and client reporting. The right candidate thrives in a multi-client environment, is comfortable shifting between clients and tasks throughout the day, and brings the experience to work independently without needing step‑by‑step direction. Payroll Process full-cycle payroll for multiple clients using Gusto, ADP, Paychex, QuickBooks Payroll or another payroll provider. Process some manually entered union payrolls. Manage multi-state payroll, garnishments, and voluntary deductions. Ensure payroll tax filings (federal, state, local) are accurate and submitted on time. Handle off-cycle runs, terminations, and new hire setup. Accounting & Reporting Prepare and post accrual‑basis journal entries, including prepaid expenses, accrued liabilities, depreciation, and payroll‑related accruals. Perform monthly bank and account reconciliations. Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable for client portfolios. Assist with month‑end and year‑end close across multiple clients. Prepare and present financial statements. Prepare and file California sales and use tax returns (CDTFA); multi‑state experience a plus. Monitor nexus and taxability rules across client business activities. Coordinate with clients and external CPAs during tax season and audit support. Required Experience 5+ years of hands‑on payroll processing experience (multi‑client or high‑volume preferred). Strong command of accrual‑basis accounting. QuickBooks Online and/or Desktop proficiency. Experience with Gusto, ADP, Paychex, or similar payroll platforms. California sales tax filing experience. Comfortable managing multiple clients simultaneously with competing deadlines. Excellent attention to detail and ability to self‑review your own work. Preferred (not required) Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or QuickBooks ProAdvisor designation. Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. How to Apply Please complete this application and email your resume and cover letter to View email address on click.appcast.io Grace Dougan Consulting is an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Grace Dougan Consulting