Bookkeeper - Payroll Analyst

Bookkeeper - Payroll AnalystWe're looking for a Payroll Analyst who is detail-oriented and eager to make an impact. In this role, you'll help ensure every employee is paid accurately and on time. You'll support the day-to-day flow of payroll information, electronic timesheets, and work closely with HR and Finance, to keep our payroll cycle running smoothly. You'll bring strong analytical and problem-solving skills, along with experience using ADP Workforce Now. You'll take ownership of payroll accuracy and process, resolve issues, and help us work efficiently. This role is ideal for someone who is detail oriented and works as a team player, someone who can dive into data while also building trusted relationships across teams. If you're looking for an opportunity to grow your career in payroll within a supportive, fast-paced environment, we'd love to hear from you.Main FunctionsEnsure timely and accurate end-to-end payroll processing (bi-weekly).Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual payroll reconciliationsMaintain and document standard operating procedures for payroll processesValidate payroll controls and escalate discrepancies or exceptions to managementCollaborating with HR, Benefits, FinanceProvide excellent communication with employees on payroll policies, deductions, and tax queriesReview payroll results and reports to identify errors, anomalies, or exceptions, reconcile bi-weekly reports and YTD payrolls.RequirementsMinimum of 3+ years of relevant payroll experienceKnowledgeable in payroll tax compliance and NY state payroll processesProficient in ADP Workforce NowStrong analytical, problem-solving, and reconciliation skillsStrong Excel skills (VLOOKUP, pivot tables, formulas)High integrity and ability to maintain confidentialityProactive, adaptable, and hands-on with a strong work ethic and a "can-do" approachDiligent individual with a focus on automation and continual improvementAble to work independently and collaboratively within our fiscal, benefits and HR teamSpecial ProjectsAs needed special projects assigned by Management.Employees may be required to carry out additional duties assigned by Supervisor.Additional Job Functions:Adheres to all policies and procedures, including those prescribed in the Highland Park CDC Employee Handbook.Maintain confidentiality and do not disclose information learned through the course of the job with people other than those who need to know including employee information, financial information, client information, etc.Competencies:Customer Service Orientation: Manages difficult or emotional situations with internal and external stakeholders; Responds promptly to customer needs; Responds to requests for service and assistance. Maintains and communicates a positive "can do" attitude with internal and external stakeholders.Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Uses reason when dealing with emotional topics.Systems Thinking: Demonstrates an ability to (a) see how organizational systems ( e.g., internal/external conditions, processes, people ) interact and influence each other, and (b) how these systems create and contribute to specific issues ( e.g., high voluntary turnover ) and strengths ( e.g., strong customer focus ).Planning / Organization: Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently: Plans for additional resources; Develops realistic action plans. Leverages tools to manage workflow and reprioritizes accordingly.Service and Teamwork - Understands the needs and wants of the organization, customers, co-workers and supervisors in order to provide accurate, complete and timely service and to further the mission, values and goals of the organization.Oral Communication: Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens and gets clarification.Written Communication: Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.Ethics: Treats people with respect: Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.Dependability: Follows instructions; Responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments.Initiative: Volunteers readily; Undertakes self-development activities; Seeks increased responsibilities; Takes independent actions and calculated risks; Looks for and takes advantage of opportunities; Asks for and offers help when needed.QualificationsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and / or ability required.Minimum Required Education & Experience:Associates Degree in Accounting or related field1 to 3 years of specialized experience in Payroll Processing.Preferred Education & Experience:Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or related field2 years related experience.Computer Skills:Proficient in computer software programs (QB online, Word, Excel, Power Point, ADP, etc.)Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Reads and comprehends simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos; Writes simple correspondence; Presents information in one-on-one and small groups situations outside stakeholders, clients and other employees.Bilingual is preferredGeneral Physical Requirements and Working ConditionsGeneral Working Hours:Generally, this position is Monday through Friday.Working From Home:This job cannot be completed working from home.Travel:May be required to travel about 2% of the time to purchase items or to attend a training or go to the post office as needed.Physical Requirements:The physical activity for the Accountant/Bookkeeper is:Climbing & Ambulating Stairs: Ascending or descending stairs and ramps using feet and legs and/or hands and arms. Body agility is emphasized. The amount of climbing required exceeds that required for ordinary locomotion.Stopping: Bending body downward and forward by bending spine at the waist. This factor is important if it occurs to a considerable degree and requires full use of the lower extremities and back muscles.Kneeling: Bending legs at knee to come to a rest on knee or knees.Crouching: Bending the body downward and forward by bending leg and spine.Reaching . Extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction.Walking. Moving about on foot to accomplish tasks and has an ability to navigate from one location to another.Standing: Remaining upright on the feet, particularly for sustained periods of time.Lifting. Must raise objects from a lower to a higher position or move objects horizontally from position to-to-position.Fingering: Picking, pinching, typing or otherwise working, primarily with fingers rather than with whole hand or arm as in handling. Ability to use computer tablet to write reports, notes and document compliance with patrol stops.Grasping: Applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm.Talking: Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; those activities where detailed or important spoken instructions must be conveyed to other workers accurately, loudly, or quickly.Hearing: Perceiving the nature of sounds at normal speaking levels with or without correction and having the ability to receive detailed information through oral