Accounting and Payroll Specialist

Birmingham Zoo Inc. (BZI) is a nonprofit, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited Zoo and regional tourist attraction serving the greater Birmingham community and beyond. We advance wildlife conservation through responsible animal care, education, and local and global conservation efforts in support of our mission, Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Accounting and Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting accounting operations and coordinating payroll processes, including bi-weekly payroll processing, payroll tax reporting, and related financial activities. This role contributes to accurate financial recordkeeping, compliance with applicable regulations, and efficient day-to-day finance operations.

All employees serve as ambassadors of the Zoo and are expected to act in a professional manner consistent with the Zoo’s mission and its core values of Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Stewardship, and Inclusion. This expectation applies when interacting with the public or when reasonably perceived as representing the organization.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Supports accounting operations, including cash management, revenue recording, reconciliations, and financial reporting, ensuring accurate and consistent financial processes.
• Coordinates and processes payroll activities, including timekeeping review, payroll preparation, tax reporting, and administration of deductions and benefits in compliance with applicable laws and policies.
• Collaborates with the Accounting Manager and Director of Human Resources (dotted-line support) to help complete month-end duties, alignment of payroll, benefits, onboarding, and compliance-related processes.
• Maintains employee and financial records, supports audits and regulatory reporting, and prepares required documentation for internal and external reporting needs.
• Provides training and support to staff on payroll and timekeeping systems and serves as a resource for payroll, benefits, and related inquiries.
• Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and applicable departmental guidelines.
• This job description reflects the general nature of the work and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties. This position may be assigned additional duties reasonably related to the employee’s primary responsibilities and organizational needs, provided such duties are within the employee’s training, experience, and safety requirements and do not materially change the nature of the position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

For purposes of this job description, “staff” may include employees, volunteers, interns, and other assigned personnel.

• No direct supervisory responsibility for staff.
• Provides functional leadership through training, guidance, and reinforcement of established protocols to support consistency in daily operations.
• Serves as a resource and point of contact for staff, supporting adherence to operational, safety, and Organizational standards.

SAFETY ANALYSIS

• This position may involve exposure to hazards common to an office environment, with occasional work in outdoor or operational areas of the Zoo.
• Specific training and procedures will be provided to maintain safety of people as the highest priority, followed by the safety of the animal collection.
• Use and understanding of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required based on assigned tasks and work locations.
• Employees are required to follow all Zoo safety policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Emergency Procedure Manual and to promptly report injuries, incidents, or safety concerns through established reporting channels.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Ability to perform desk-based and computer-related tasks, including use of hands, fingers, and standard office equipment.
• Ability to sit or remain stationary for extended periods, with occasional standing, walking, or movement between locations.
• Ability to communicate effectively, including exchanging information with others.
• Ability to occasionally move, lift, or carry items up to 20 pounds.
• Ability to navigate outdoor and operational areas of the Zoo as needed, which may include uneven surfaces and varying environmental conditions.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Birmingham Zoo Inc. recognizes that skills and knowledge may be gained through a combination of education, paid employment, volunteer service, and other relevant experiences. Candidates who meet most of the qualifications for a position are encouraged to apply.

Education and Work Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent is required; some college coursework is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• General accounting knowledge and experience with accounting software is preferred.
• Approximately two years of experience in payroll, human resources information systems, or related work is preferred; experience with payroll and financial systems is a plus.

Skills, Knowledge, and Desired Qualities

• Demonstrates knowledge of basic accounting principles and practices, with general knowledge of creating journal entries and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Demonstrates knowledge of payroll processes and compliance practices and experience with human resources information systems (e.g., Paycom, ADP, or similar platforms).
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft products, especially Excel.
• Communicates clearly and respectfully and collaborates effectively with others to meet deadlines and support operational needs.
• Demonstrates organization, attention to detail, and critical thinking, with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities and maintain confidentiality.

Other Requirements

• May be required to operate Zoo-owned vehicles (including golf carts), powered equipment, and/or ride or attraction systems. In such cases, must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record in accordance with Zoo policy. A pre-employment Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check will be conducted, and an annual MVR review is required.
• May be required to travel on occasion.

HOURS OF WORK

• Work schedules are based on operational needs and may include any combination of weekdays, weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events.
• Employees may be required to work during emergency situations or unusual operational circumstances.

ORGAZATIONAL COMMITMENT

Birmingham Zoo Inc. is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive workplace and encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Birmingham Zoo Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

APPLICATION PROCESS

• Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
• Final candidates may be subject to background screening and drug testing, in accordance with applicable law.

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position and does not constitute an employment contract. The Zoo reserves the right to modify duties, responsibilities, and requirements at any time based on operational needs.

Employment with Birmingham Zoo Inc. is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.