Payroll Specialist/Staff Accountant

Summary

The Payroll Specialist oversees the organization’s payroll functions, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time in accordance with the company’s established pay cycle and applicable laws and regulations. This position also supports data entry, accounting tasks, and other departmental needs as assigned, including assisting with accounting backlogs and workload as needed.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Payroll Administration

• Prepare, process, and maintain accurate payroll records.
• Manage all aspects of bi-weekly payroll, including reviewing employee time, processing payroll, direct deposits, and paychecks.
• Review payroll information for accuracy and completeness prior to processing.
• Work with supervisors and managers to research and correct payroll discrepancies and payment errors.
• Process employee wage garnishments and other legally required payroll deductions.
• Maintain employee benefit accruals, including vacation and sick leave.
• Ensure payroll changes, deductions, rates, and employee information are accurately maintained in the payroll system.
• Respond to employee and supervisor questions regarding payroll, deductions, timekeeping, and pay.
• Maintain confidentiality of payroll and employee information.

Payroll Tax & Compliance

• Verify that payroll tax deposits are processed accurately and timely through ADP.
• Prepare and submit payroll-related reports to outside agencies, as required.
• Complete quarterly and year-end payroll tax reporting.
• Prepare, review, and distribute annual W-2 forms.
• Maintain payroll records in accordance with company policies and applicable record-retention requirements.
• Stay informed of applicable federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations.

Accounting Support

• Prepare and post payroll-related general ledger journal entries.
• Collect receipts and coding information from credit card holders and enter credit card statements into the accounting system.
• Prepare weekly and month-end bank reconciliations.
• Perform accounting data entry and maintain accurate financial records.
• Assist with accounting tasks and departmental backlogs as needed.
• Provide general accounting support to other members of the accounting team as assigned.

General Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate, organized, and confidential payroll and accounting records.
• Assist with audits, reporting, and information requests as needed.
• Identify discrepancies, research issues, and follow through to resolution.
• Follow established accounting, payroll, and internal control procedures.
• Provide cross-functional support to the Finance and Human Resources departments as needed.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous payroll and/or accounting experience.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive employee and financial information.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to meet recurring payroll deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with supervisors, employees, and accounting team members.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree or coursework in accounting, finance, business, or a related field.
• Payroll certification or equivalent payroll training.
• Experience with ADP or a similar payroll system.
• Experience with general ledger accounting, reconciliations, and journal entries.
• Experience with payroll tax reporting and compliance.
• Experience working in a high-volume or seasonal payroll environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of payroll processing practices and applicable payroll regulations.
• Understanding basic accounting principles and general ledger functions.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify discrepancies.
• Ability to work with confidential and sensitive information.
• Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines and responsibilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with employees, supervisors, and outside agencies.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and provide support across the Accounting and Human Resources functions.

Traits and Characteristics

To deliver world-class experiences guided by the following Alaska Native cultural values, safely and sustainably.

Embrace Traditional Alaska Native cultural values, including humility and pride, respect for all people (including oneself), respect for nature, humor, patience, strength, and holding each other up.

Follow & Deliver Core Values:

• Safety First: We prioritize our guests' and team members' safety and well-being, ensuring secure and enjoyable experiences.
• World-Class Employment: We strive to be a world-class place of employment, valuing hard work, mentorship, a sense of ownership, and opportunities for career growth.
• World-Class Guest Services: We are committed to exceeding guest expectations, delivering world-class experiences that showcase our hospitality and the beauty of Alaska.
• Collaborative Professionalism: Embracing collaboration within our organization with a professional spirit, understanding that amidst laughter and play, our dedication to excellence and integrity remains unwavering.
• Community Collaboration: Actively choosing to partner with neighbors and the community across Alaska, making a conscious effort to support local businesses and create social and economic opportunities through meaningful cooperation beyond our organization.
• Sustainability at our core: We are dedicated to sustainable operations for future generations.
• Curiosity & Innovation: We encourage a culture of curiosity and innovation, striving to be early adopters in technology and staying ahead in our commitment to continuous improvement.
• Integrity-Driven Decisions: Integrity guides every decision we make, ensuring transparency, honesty, and ethical conduct in all aspects of our operations.
• Cultural Respect & Sharing: We deeply celebrate and honor our Alaska Native heritage, fostering intergenerational connections, embracing family values, and contributing to the cultural richness of our communities.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Work is primarily performed in an office environment with regular interaction across company departments and locations.
• Schedule flexibility may be required to ensure the company's payroll is completed on time. 
• The position requires prolonged use of computers and other standard office equipment.
• The position requires the ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and through virtual collaboration platforms.
• Occasional lifting or moving of computer or office equipment may be required.
• Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.