Job Title: Principal Accountant – Payroll Taxes & Accounting
Location: Newark, NJ 07102 (Hybrid – 3 days onsite, 2 days remote)
Job Type: Contract
Experience: 3–5 years
Work Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Job Overview
Our client is seeking an experienced Principal Accountant specializing in Payroll Taxes & Accounting to join their team in Newark, NJ on a 6-month contract engagement. The ideal candidate will have a strong payroll background, excellent analytical skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Key Responsibilities
- Run payroll for various cycles including off-cycle, weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly.
- Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports of payroll transactions.
- Support and facilitate payroll-related audits by providing records and documentation.
- Ensure accurate withholding of deductions in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
- Oversee electronic payments and mandatory direct deposit participation; handle reversals, returned funds, and manual checks.
- Manage all pension-related deductions, payments, and reporting including defined benefit/contribution plans and NJ State pension plans (PERS and PFRS).
- Process inbound and outbound payroll interface files; troubleshoot errors and reconcile data.
- Perform general ledger account analyses and resolve reconciling items.
- Run Discoverer Reports and prepare detailed management and third-party payment reports.
- Provide oversight and direction to payroll union and clerical staff.
- Participate in system upgrade testing and process improvement initiatives.
Required Skills
- 3–5 years of payroll processing experience
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (spreadsheets, macros), Access databases, and MS Office suite
- Knowledge of payroll functions: preparation, balancing, timekeeping, and accruals
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
- Detail-oriented with ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
Preferred Skills
- Oracle Payroll HCM experience
- Discoverer or Orbit Report Writer experience
Location & Work Model
Hybrid – 3 days per week onsite at Newark, NJ 07102; 2 days remote. Standard hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
Engagement Details
6-month contract. Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field required (or equivalent experience). Note: Candidates will be required to complete and pass an Excel assessment prior to interview.
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