Discover specialized Senior Payroll GL Accountant jobs, a critical niche at the intersection of payroll operations and corporate finance. This senior-level accounting profession is dedicated to ensuring the accuracy, compliance, and strategic integrity of all payroll-related financial data within the general ledger. Professionals in this role act as the essential bridge between the payroll department and the broader accounting and finance teams, translating complex payroll transactions into accurate financial statements. They are responsible for the financial control and reporting of a company's largest expense: its workforce. A Senior Payroll GL Accountant typically manages the complete cycle of payroll accounting. Core responsibilities revolve around month-end and year-end close processes. This includes preparing and posting complex journal entries for salaries, wages, bonuses, taxes, and benefits. They perform meticulous account reconciliations for key payroll liability and asset accounts, such as accrued payroll, paid time off, and employee withholdings. A significant part of the role involves in-depth variance and flux analysis, investigating discrepancies between forecasted and actual payroll expenses to provide actionable insights to Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) teams. Furthermore, these accountants play a pivotal role in internal and external audits, preparing detailed supporting schedules and serving as subject matter experts for all payroll-related financial inquiries. They are also instrumental in process improvement projects, often leading efforts to automate manual tasks and enhance controls within the payroll-to-GL workflow. To excel in Senior Payroll GL Accountant jobs, candidates generally need a robust blend of technical expertise and soft skills. Typically, a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance is required, often complemented by progress towards or possession of a CPA certification. Employers seek 5+ years of progressive experience specifically combining payroll processing knowledge with general ledger accounting. Proficiency in major ERP systems (like Oracle, SAP, or Workday) and advanced Excel skills for data manipulation and analysis are fundamental. A deep understanding of payroll tax regulations, multi-state or international payroll complexities, and accounting standards related to employee compensation is crucial. Beyond technical acumen, successful professionals demonstrate a proactive, analytical mindset, exceptional attention to detail, and strong cross-functional communication skills to collaborate effectively with payroll, HR, tax, and finance departments. For those seeking a strategic, control-focused accounting career, Senior Payroll GL Accountant jobs offer a unique and high-impact pathway.
