Job Overview: The City of Bridgeton, MO is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Finance Clerk II to join our Finance Department. This role is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll for all city employees, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. The Finance Clerk II will also provide support for related financial operations, assist with reporting, and ensure the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive employee information.
Job Summary: The Finance Clerk II will process Bi-weekly payroll and maintain employee payroll records. This position is a critical part of the finance team. This position will maintain compliance with Federal, State, and local payroll laws and perform other accounting duties.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Ensure timely and accurate processing of payroll transactions; information may include employees’ hourly rates, salaries, or other compensation, time worked, paid leave and holidays, deductions and withholding, address changes, along with other updates, and other information
- Manage retiree and C.O.B.R.A. accounts
- Process Worker's Compensation Claims and employee work comp. payments, along with preparing information for the annual worker's comp audit
- Responsible for reconciliation of benefit statements/invoices from providers on a monthly basis
- Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports of payroll transactions
- Stay current and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour laws and best practices
- Responsible for all DOL compliance reporting accurately and timely
- Calculate and file applications for pension benefits
- Prepare annual pension updates for actuaries
- Prepare quarterly and annual tax filing, including W-2s, 1095C, and other required tax forms
- Prepare monthly reconciliations for all payroll-related general ledger account
- Record and process federal, state, and local payroll tax deposits
- Prepare and provide records to auditors to ensure compliance and accuracy
- Prepare and assist with other year-end audit schedules as required or needed
- Identify, recommend, and participate in updates to HRIS/payroll processing software, systems, and procedures
- Collaborate with HR to manage employee benefits, deductions, and support open enrollment efforts
- Respond to payroll and benefit-related inquiries from employees, management, and external agencies
- Act as recording secretary for the Industrial Development Authority
- Calculate and process monthly sales tax report
- Enter miscellaneous cash and revenue receipts
- Review journal entries prepared by the Finance Officer
- Conduct internal cash audits
- Perform other duties as assigned
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Extensive knowledge of the payroll function including compliance requirements, preparation, balancing, internal control, and payroll taxes
- Strong knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent written, communication skills, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines
- Must be able to maintain a high level of confidentiality of information
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software
- Proficient with or the ability to quickly learn payroll software
- Ability to work well with others
Education and Experience:
- Graduation from a two-year college with a degree in business, accounting, or related field and five years of experience in payroll and financial records; or an equivalent combination of education and experience preferred
- Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) preferred
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
- Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development and training opportunities