Sr. Payroll Accountant

Description We are looking for an experienced Sr. Payroll Accountant to join a service-focused organization in Huntington Beach, California. This position plays a central role in maintaining accurate financial records tied to payroll activity, supporting close processes, and delivering reliable account analysis each month. The ideal candidate brings strong reconciliation skills, sound accounting judgment, and the ability to work across teams to ensure timely and accurate reporting.

Responsibilities:

• Drive monthly and quarterly close activities related to payroll and other assigned accounting areas, ensuring all deadlines are met with accuracy.

• Prepare and review journal entries with complete support, including entries associated with payroll activity, accruals, and expense reporting.

• Perform detailed reconciliations for balance sheet and income statement accounts such as cash, prepaid expenses, fixed assets, payables, accrued liabilities, revenue, and operating expenses.

• Analyze payroll-related balances and fluctuations, identify unusual variances against prior periods or budget, and communicate findings to management.

• Produce financial statements and supporting schedules required for divisional and group reporting in accordance with the established close calendar.

• Reconcile intercompany activity, confirm supporting documentation is complete, and resolve discrepancies in coordination with internal accounting teams.

• Partner with management to strengthen accounting procedures, enhance internal controls, and support compliance with U.S. accounting standards and audit requirements.

• Collaborate with division and entity accounting groups on special projects and process improvements, including initiatives affecting financial systems or reporting workflows.

• Safeguard sensitive financial and payroll information by handling records with a high level of confidentiality. Requirements • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.

• At least 3-5 years of accounting experience, with exposure to payroll accounting, reconciliations, and month-end close responsibilities.

• Strong knowledge of general ledger activity, journal entry preparation, and account reconciliation processes.

• Solid understanding of U.S. GAAP and the ability to research and resolve accounting issues effectively.

• Advanced Excel skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

• Experience using ERP or financial systems such as NetSuite, Oracle, or SAP is highly valued.

• CPA or equivalent accounting designation is preferred.

• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with cross-functional teams.

Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.

All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.

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