Accountant (Payroll Accounting) (UPDATED)

Please Note: The Position Highlights have been updated to clarify the hybrid-first workplace and remote nature of the role.

This position plays a critical role in supporting the accuracy, compliance, and overall integrity of the University's payroll accounting operations. The Accountant I applies professional accounting knowledge to review, reconcile, and process routine payroll-related financial transactions in accordance with GAAP, ABOR requirements, and university policies. The role prepares timely processing of payroll payments, deductions, federal and multi-state taxes, and routine reconciliations each pay period, while providing excellent customer service and technical guidance to campus units.

This position works under general supervision and is well-suited for individuals who want to build or expand their experience in payroll accounting, gain exposure to complex university-wide financial processes, and contribute to a collaborative, detail-focused finance team committed to operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Finance & Budget supports a hybrid-first workplace that embraces flexibility. This role is part of a hybrid team but is primarily remote. Candidate must be in Arizona. No relocation funding will be provided. Occasional in-person attendance is required for all-staff employee recognition events, quarterly team-building activities, and other scheduled touchpoints.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

• Processes specialized transactions in a specific accounting area (payroll), this position supports the payroll function by performing key accounting-related tasks under supervision.
• During each payroll cycle (bi-weekly), prepares a routine preliminary payroll estimate to identify variances from the prior pay period requiring correction.
• Processes accurate and timely payments to vendors, including but not limited to ADP, Fidelity, TIAA, ASRS, PSPRS, and garnishment vendors, for both mandatory and voluntary deductions. Uploads payroll tax files to ADP for all federal, state, and local jurisdictions.
• Monitors outbound vendor files, especially the Direct Deposit file, to verify payroll has been successfully issued. Assists with payroll posting errors in the financial system by communicating with the appropriate internal departments.
• Performs a wide range of professional accounting functions, including initiating, reviewing, monitoring, reconciling, and analyzing routine financial transactions.
• Prepares payroll-related journal entries each pay period and routes for review. Performs routine reconciliations of payroll liabilities to check for accuracy.
• Contributes to University financial reporting by compiling information for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, as well as for monthly, quarterly, and annual reports and external surveys.
• Assists departments with basic inquiries related to salary expense transfers, labor ledger journal entries, payroll encumbrances, and payroll-related UAccess Analytics reports.
• Supports units in understanding Employee-Related Expenses (ERE) and the financial data behind payroll activity in the general ledger.
• Follows Payroll Accounting procedures and supports senior staff with the development or updates to documentation as needed to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with current practices.
• Collaborates regularly with Payroll Operations, Benefits, and Workforce Systems teams to support accurate and efficient processes.
• Performs additional duties within the scope of the Accounting Services team as assigned by the supervisor.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Basic knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles, practices, and procedures.
• Skill in performing detailed numerical computations.
• Skill in preparing detailed reports on a timely basis.
• Ability to multi-task, work under pressure, meet deadlines and work in a fast-paced work environment where job duties change, and new procedures are initiated.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Ability to learn and work independently and as part of a team.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience required.
• Minimum of 1 year of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or a related area with accounting coursework.
• Experience with UAccess Financials, UAccess Employee, and UAccess Analytics.
• Experience with spreadsheet and database applications such as Excel and Access.
• Experience in preparing financial statements, reconciliations, and variance analysis.
• Experience in higher education or other governmental organizations.