Payroll Accountant

Overview

Kimley-Horn, the Payroll Accountant is responsible for managing all aspects of multi-state and international payroll processing with precision, compliance, and confidentiality.  This position works closely with employees at all levels of the organization, ensuring accurate payroll administration, reporting, and adherance to federal, state, and local regulations.  The role also supports payroll audits, financial reconciliations, and special projects to strengthen internal payroll operations.

 

This is an in-office opportunity at our Raleigh, North Carolina (NC) Office. 

Responsibilities

• Process semi-monthly multi-state and Canadian payroll from start to finish.
• Maintain payroll data integrity through ongoing auditing, reconciliation, and reporting.
• Create, analyze, and update payroll reports using Business Intelligence tools.
• Review and verify timesheets, ensuring compliance with company policies and timekeeping standards.
• Manage payroll tax filings, including federal, state, and local taxes, and ensure compliance with wage and hour laws.
• Prepare and assist with audit workpapers and other payroll-related audits.
• Process verifications of employment and respond to employee payroll inquiries.
• Reconcile payroll accounts to the general ledger and ensure accuracy in financial records.
• Collaborate with HR & Benefits teams to maintain up-to-date employee data for new hires, terminations, and benefit changes.
• Serve as back-up to other payroll accountants as needed and assist with special projects or system upgrades.
• Support management with payroll analysis and reporting to inform business decisions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or related field (preferred).
• Proven experience as a Payroll Accountant or in a similar payroll/accounting role.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll laws; international and Canadian payroll experience preferred.
• Experience with payroll systems such as UKG Pro (Ultimate Kronos Group) and Business Intelligence reporting tools. 
• Familiarity with multi-state tax regulations and payroll deductions. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (intermediate or above.) 
• Strong interpersonal skills and a client service oriented mindset.
• High degree of professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity when handling sensitive information. 
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and follow-through. 
• Ability to multi-task, meet deadlines, and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt to new payroll software and reporting applications. 

Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it— that’s why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn’s placement on the Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work” list for 19 years!

 

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

• Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
• Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
• Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
• Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.