Staff Accountant (Princeton)

Company Description Princeton Theological Seminary, founded in 1812, is a graduate institution dedicated to forming Christian leaders for service in the church, the academy, and the wider world. The Seminary is known for rigorous theological scholarship, a vibrant worshiping community, and a commitment to thoughtful, faithful engagement with contemporary issues. Faculty, staff, and students work collaboratively to support academic excellence and spiritual formation. Princeton Theological Seminary values diversity, inclusion, and a welcoming environment for all who participate in its mission.

Salary Range: $60,000-$75,000

• JOB PURPOSE: This Staff Accountant position is primarily responsible for the entry, reconciliation and recording of payroll and benefits information into the payroll system and the general ledger. The role ensures that the information for each payroll is correct and that the payroll information is accurately loaded into the general ledger. This role includes reviewing time and attendance submissions for non-exempt employees for accuracy, communicating payroll changes to the payroll processor, reconciling general ledger accounts for payroll withholding, and ensuring benefits payments match the benefits in the payroll/HRIS system. This role also serves as the primary resource for nonresident alien tax issues.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: % of time

Payroll preparation for processing

30% of time

Monitors all payroll requisitions and ensures that all changes are accurately reflected in the payroll system.

For bi-weekly payrolls, reviews and verifies that hours submitted are accurate.

Serves as the liaison for payroll questions from employees.

Ensures all new hires, status changes, or termination of employees are accurately recorded in the system.

Reviews the preview of the payroll to ensure accuracy before approving

Payroll recording and reporting

25% of time

Downloads payroll GL reports for each pay period, reviews and makes necessary corrections in the reports

Communicates any corrections needed with the payroll company, or makes the corrections in the payroll system

Uploads payroll journal entries into the accounting system

Reconciles payroll general ledger accounts on a monthly basis

Reviews quarterly and annual tax reporting forms, including W-2s, 941’s, etc.

Benefits Reconciliations

25% of time

Verifies that invoices for benefits match the information in the payroll system

Reconciles benefits withholding and expense accounts to ensure accuracy

Coordinates communication with the HR department, the third-party payroll processor and benefits coordinator to ensure all parties and systems agree

Nonresident Alien Tax Reporting and General Accounting

20% of time

Obtains training and maintains knowledge in regulations related to nonresident alien payments, whether as employee compensation or non-compensation payments.

Monitors and prepares reports for non-resident alien tax reporting.

Serves as primary liaison regarding tax matters with international students and employees.

Performs other reconciliations, as needed or requested.

Total 100% time

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS REQUIRED:

Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field required;

• Understanding of payroll laws and regulations, including complicated payroll issues such as clergy housing allowance, international tax laws for non-resident aliens, shift differentials, and retirement plans.

• Minimum of three years of progressive experience in payroll and accounting

• Strictest adherence to confidentiality of payroll and personnel data.

• Excellent attention to detail, and analytical, communication and presentation skills.

• Commitment to process improvement; flexibility and willingness to adapt to change.

• Absolute integrity and discretion when handling confidential information.

• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to relate to broad constituencies including staff, administrators, senior executives, and external payroll professionals.

• Enjoy being a part of a community dedicated to the Seminary’s mission, working as part of a professional team, and motivating others to develop and achieve.

• Demonstrated initiative and strong work ethic with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience with ADP Workforce Now payroll platform

Princeton Theological Seminary reserves the right to amend this position description at any time.