Payroll Accountant

Lakeshore Talent is in search of a Payroll Accountant for a contract opportunity with a respected organization in Denver, Colorado. This position is expected to last 6–8 weeks, with the potential for extension based on business needs. The ideal candidate will bring a strong accounting background combined with payroll processing experience and will play a key role in supporting payroll accounting functions during a critical period of increased workload and system implementation. Pay Rate: $34.00 – $36.00 per hour Location: Denver, CO 80222 Schedule: Hybrid – 3 to 4 days onsite and 1 to 2 days remote each week Duration: 6–8 weeks with potential for extension Position Overview This role sits within the Payroll team but is heavily focused on accounting responsibilities. The Payroll Accountant will support payroll-related accounting activities, including journal entries, account reconciliations, month-end close processes, and financial reporting. While payroll processing experience is required, the primary focus is on accounting support and maintaining accurate payroll-related financial records. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytical, highly organized, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment while handling sensitive information with discretion. Key Responsibilities Support payroll accounting functions, including journal entries and account reconciliations Process and audit multi-state payroll cycles accurately and on time Maintain payroll records, including earnings, deductions, tax withholdings, and employee data Utilize Workday to manage payroll transactions, reporting, and payroll-related processes Perform payroll bank reconciliations and investigate discrepancies Reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts Assist with month-end and year-end close activities Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies, employee inquiries, and system-related issues Collaborate with Accounting and HR teams to improve processes and ensure data accuracy Assist with payroll audits and provide support for internal and external audit requests Prepare payroll reports, reconciliations, and analytics for leadership review Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experience Minimum of 3 years of payroll experience, preferably in a high-volume environment Strong understanding of accounting principles and payroll accounting practices Experience performing bank reconciliations and general ledger reconciliations Hands‑on experience with Workday Payroll Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including PivotTables, VLOOKUPs, and data analysis Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy Excellent organizational, problem‑solving, and communication skills Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information professionally Preferred Qualifications Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification or similar credential Experience processing multi-state payroll Familiarity with SOX compliance and audit support activities If you are an accounting professional with payroll experience and are looking for an opportunity to contribute immediately within a collaborative team environment, we encourage you to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr Lakeshore Talent