Payroll Accountant

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION: The Payroll Accountant is responsible for processing the payroll and independent contractor fees for approximately 200 full-time, part-time and seasonal employees. This position supports the entire organization, interacting regularly with all supervisors as well as all employees and independent contractors employed by the organization.

The successful candidate joins a community of kind and dedicated arts and administrative professionals who are propelled by Mark Morris's commitment to artistic excellence, access to the arts, and the impact that the arts have in connecting and engaging communities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In partnership with Insperity PEO, process bi-weekly payroll for approximately 200 employees (staff, dancers, production crew, teachers, and musicians).
• Answer employee questions regarding paychecks and deductions.
• Prepare bi-weekly fee payments for approx. 50 independent contractors (faculty, musicians, production crew) and maintain vendor records.
• Verify payroll information (e.g. time sheets, contracts, overtime payments, direct deposits, wage attachments, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring accurate distribution of funds.
• Post payroll entries to the general ledger and ensure accurate reconciliation of payroll accounts and payroll allocations.
• Remit bi-weekly 403(b) retirement plan contributions to 3rd party platform.
• Maintain accurate payroll records and files for each employee, including W4 forms, I9 forms and timesheets.
• Verify Insperity PEO processing of quarterly and annual Federal 941 and NYS-45 tax fillings.
• Prepare timely and accurate year-end W2s and 1099’s and other related reporting forms required by the IRS.
• Stay current with payroll software updates and maintain system functionality.
• Maintain confidentiality and provide superb customer service to address any payroll matters.
• Maintain a wide variety of payroll information, files and records in paper and electronic formats for the purpose of providing an up-to-date reference and audit trail in compliance with Record Retention Standards.
• Participate in internal and external payroll audits to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field preferred or equivalent work experience.
• 2+ years of payroll processing experience and/or accounting knowledge.
• Payroll processing experience required, preferably for union and non-union employees as well as complex pay types, pay codes and pay structures.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL & ABILITY REQUIREMENTS:

• Extensive knowledge of payroll functions including preparation, reconciliation, and internal controls.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, including debits and credits.
• Exceptional organizational skills.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent follow-through.
• Proven ability to work with precision and accuracy.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments and prioritize work accordingly.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Congenial and collaborative team player with a sense of humor and humility.
• Resourceful, versatile, proactive problem-solver. 
• Ability to maintain a strict level of confidentiality, discretion, judgment, tact, and diplomacy in all matters.
• Technologically savvy and familiar with computerized accounting and payroll software applications, experience using Blackbaud’s Financial Edge or Insperity Payroll a plus.
• High proficiency in MS Office Suite especially Excel and Outlook

YOU WILL BE SUCCESSFUL IN THIS ROLE IF YOU:

• Can be firm on policies and procedures but flexible in managing people and relationships
• Have patience and grace when interacting with different personality types
• Have an excellent memory and zealous attention to detail
• Possess strong organizational skills and have the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
• Are someone with initiative who can take ownership of their work and enjoys working as a team player to reach shared departmental and organizational goals

SCHEDULE: This is a full-time, non-exempt 40 hour per week onsite position, Monday-Friday. Flexible hybrid schedule to be determined upon successful completion of introductory period.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Paid vacation, sick/personal leave, holidays and bonus days
• Employee Health and Life insurance covered 100%, Flexible Spending Plan, Voluntary vision and dental coverage, Pre-tax commuter benefit, 403(b) retirement plan
• Access to special events and MMDG performances (when available)
• Access to free and discounted classes at the Dance Center and online
• Invitations to cultural events extended to staff members by community partners.

To join our team, please include a cover letter addressed to Elizabeth Fox, CFO with your resume submission. Resumes without a cover letter will not be considered Your cover letter must highlight relevant experience and should answer the following questions:

• Why are you interested in working at the Mark Morris Dance Group?
• The Payroll Accountant must be able to work accurately and efficiently under hard deadlines while also juggling last-minute requests and information. How have you exhibited this skill in your work experience?