Payroll Accountant
Professional Search Group • San Diego, California • Full Time
Posted on Wed, Jun 10, 2026
About the Opportunity
We are partnering with a dynamic and growing organization to hire a Payroll Accountant to support U.S. payroll operations. This role offers a unique blend of payroll processing, tax compliance, and accounting exposure, making it an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys both the technical and analytical sides of payroll.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. You’ll play a key role in ensuring payroll accuracy, maintaining compliance, and supporting critical financial reporting processes.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare, review, and post payroll journal entries; reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts
- Review and approve payroll to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Manage federal, state, and local payroll tax filings (including Forms 940, 941, W-2) across multiple states
- Monitor changes in payroll tax legislation and ensure policies and processes remain up to date
- Support month-end and year-end close, including accruals and balance sheet reconciliations
- Assist with internal and external audits, including IRS and Department of Labor inquiries
- Research and resolve payroll tax notices and discrepancies, implementing corrective actions as needed
- Prepare ad hoc reporting and analysis for leadership related to payroll and compliance
- Partner cross-functionally with HR, Accounting, and external vendors to ensure seamless payroll operations
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- 3+ years of experience in U.S. payroll processing, tax compliance, and payroll-related journal entries
- Experience in private equity, financial services, or multi-entity environments preferred
- Strong understanding of federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations
- Experience with payroll systems such as ADP, Workday, or UKG
- Proficiency in ERP systems (NetSuite, SAP, or similar)
- Strong Excel skills and ability to work with large data sets
- Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving abilities
- Experience supporting audits and reconciliations preferred
- CPP or CPA certification is a plus
Why Join
- Opportunity to take ownership of payroll accounting in a growing, fast-paced environment
- High visibility role with cross-functional exposure across HR and Accounting
- Collaborative and team-oriented culture
- Competitive compensation and benefits package