Accounts Payable & Payroll Accountant

Position Summary

The Accounts Payable & Payroll Accountant is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of all vendor payments, employee payroll, and related financial transactions in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and nonprofit accounting standards. This position plays a critical role in maintaining the financial integrity of Congregation Emanu El and ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Accounts Payable

Review, verify, and process vendor invoices, expense reports, and check requests in accordance with organizational policies and grant requirements.
Maintain accurate vendor records, including W-9 documentation, payment terms, and contact information.
Prepare and process semi-monthly check runs, ACH payments, and wire transfers; obtain required approvals.
Prepare and file annual IRS Form 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC filings.
Monitor aging reports and resolve outstanding vendor invoices and discrepancies in a timely manner.
Assist with coding invoices to appropriate program and general ledger accounts.

Payroll

Process semi-monthly payroll for all employees, including exempt and non-exempt staff, in compliance with federal and state regulations.
Maintain payroll records including earnings, deductions, garnishments, direct deposit authorizations, and tax withholding elections.
Administer employee benefit deductions including health insurance, retirement contributions, FSA, and other voluntary deductions.
Prepare and distribute W-2s and ensure year-end payroll reconciliation is complete and accurate.
Coordinate with HR on new hires, terminations, LOA, and status changes affecting payroll.
Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll, deductions, and tax withholding.

Benefits Administration

Serve as a primary point of contact for employee benefits enrollment, changes, and terminations, coordinating with HR and third-party benefit carriers.
Process and reconcile monthly benefits invoices for health, dental, vision, life, disability, and other employer-sponsored plans; ensure timely payment to carriers.
Audit benefits deductions against payroll each pay period to ensure accuracy and resolve discrepancies promptly.
Administer the organization’s retirement plan, including timely submission of employee and employer contributions, loan deductions, and hardship withdrawals to the plan recordkeeper.
Ensure compliance with COBRA administration by coordinating with the third-party administrator and tracking required notifications and election periods.
Support open enrollment activities by preparing employee communications, updating deduction tables in the payroll system, and verifying elections are accurately processed.
Maintain up-to-date benefits records and assist with ACA reporting, including preparation of Forms 1094-C and 1095-C.
Track FMLA, short-term disability, and leave of absence periods to ensure proper benefit continuation and payroll adjustments in accordance with organizational policy and applicable law.

General Accounting & Compliance

Prepare monthly journal entries related to AP, payroll, and accruals.
Assist with month-end and year-end close processes, including account reconciliations and supporting documentation.
Support the annual audit by preparing schedules and responding to auditor inquiries related to AP and payroll.
Maintain organized and complete financial records in compliance with document retention policies.
Identify opportunities to improve processes and internal controls in AP and payroll functions.

Required Qualifications

Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred.
Minimum 2–3 years of accounts payable and/or payroll processing experience; nonprofit experience a plus.
Experience with payroll processing systems (e.g., ADP, Paychex, Paylocity, or similar).
Strong Microsoft Excel skills.
High degree of accuracy and attention to detail in data entry and financial reporting.
Demonstrated ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
Strong organizational skills and ability to meet recurring deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position is primarily office-based. The role requires prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance; employer contributes a significant portion of premiums.
403(b) retirement plan with employer match after the eligibility period.
Generous paid time off,
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.
Professional development and training opportunities.
Congregation Emanu El is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to Sharon Donia. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. No phone calls.