Payroll / Staff Accountant

Jennie Joiner with Forum Group PNW is partnering with a growing, multi-state organization to hire a Staff Accountant / Payroll Specialist based in Philomath, Oregon. This is a newly created position driven by company growth and offers a unique opportunity to join a stable, family-oriented organization where accounting and payroll play a critical role in supporting operations. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys variety in their workday and wants to be involved in both accounting and payroll functions. The position will support two large operating entities and offers a blend of hands-on accounting responsibilities and in-house payroll administration. The successful candidate will work closely with the Accounting Manager and leadership team while contributing to ongoing improvements within the accounting department.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Newly created position due to company growth
• Stable organization with long-tenured employees
• Family-friendly and flexible work environment
• Opportunity to learn and grow within accounting and payroll
• Direct exposure to leadership and decision-makers
• Casual office culture with a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Opportunity to help support process improvements and modernization efforts within the accounting department
• Performance-based bonus potential

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Administration

• Process and support semi-monthly in-house payroll for 100+ employees across multiple states
• Ensure payroll accuracy and compliance with federal and state regulations
• Process payroll adjustments including garnishments, child support orders, benefit deductions, wage changes, and final checks
• Maintain payroll records and employee data with a high degree of confidentiality
• Collaborate with HR and management regarding payroll-related questions and issues
• Prepare payroll reporting and related General Ledger entries

Accounting & Financial Operations

• Prepare and post journal entries
• Perform account reconciliations and investigate discrepancies
• Maintain General Ledger accuracy and supporting documentation
• Assist with month-end and year-end close activities
• Support Accounts Receivable functions including invoicing, cash application, and account reconciliation
• Record cash receipts and maintain accurate financial records
• Assist with audit preparation and documentation requests
• Support financial reporting and special projects as needed
• Participate in process improvement initiatives and workflow enhancements

What We're Looking For

• Associate degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred
• Equivalent combination of experience and education will be considered
• Minimum of 2 years of payroll processing experience
• Experience processing in-house payroll is strongly preferred
• Multi-state payroll experience highly desired
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Experience working within accounting and payroll software systems
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities
• Comfortable working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment

Preferred Experience

• Multi-state payroll administration
• Variable pay rates and payroll complexity
• Workers' compensation coding
• General Ledger accounting
• Journal entries and account reconciliations
• Accounts Receivable processing
• Month-end close support
• ERP and payroll systems experience
• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is someone who genuinely enjoys payroll and understands the importance of accuracy, compliance, and confidentiality. This organization is specifically seeking an individual who has hands-on experience processing payroll—not simply submitting information to a third-party provider. In addition, the successful candidate will bring strong attention to detail, excellent time management skills, and a willingness to contribute wherever needed. This role is well-suited for someone who enjoys balancing both accounting and payroll responsibilities and wants to be part of a close-knit team where their contributions are highly valued. If you're looking for an opportunity where you can expand your accounting skills, continue developing your payroll expertise, and work with a team that values collaboration, flexibility, and long-term growth, this could be an excellent fit. Reach out to Jennie Joiner with Forum Group PNW directly to learn more, or apply online today!