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Regional Transportation Authority

Payroll/Senior Accountant

Regional Transportation Authority, Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60290


The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), located in downtown Chicago, is currently accepting applications to fill the

Payroll Senior Accountant

position within the

Finance, Innovation and Technology

department. The RTA oversees financing, secures funding, and conducts transit planning for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra, and Pace. The RTA manages these three Service Boards' five-year capital programs. Also, to help riders with disabilities and older adults across Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties, the agency issues Reduced Fare and Ride Free permits, assesses eligibility for ADA Paratransit service, and oversees specialized travel training. The RTA offers a competitive benefits package, including flexible work arrangements and a hybrid work environment.

Under the direction of the Manager, Accounting and Financial Reporting, the incumbent is responsible for ensuring the timely and accurate processing of the RTA's payroll using Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP). This role is responsible for preparing and recording accounting transactions in Infor Cloudsuite Financials (Infor), reconciling payroll accounts, generating and distributing payroll reports. The incumbent will coordinate with HR to verify the accuracy of employee benefits and deductions, while maintaining the confidentiality and security of payroll data, and addressing employee queries related to payroll. Other rotational based responsibilities include supporting accounts payable functions . The incumbent will create and record journal entries for the general fund, capital fund payments, year-end accruals, perform monthly reconciliations, and other accounting responsibilities. Will work with staff on special projects as necessary.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Process and prepare the bi-weekly and monthly payrolls for RTA employees using ADP in a timely and accurate manner. Run payroll reports in ADP, process payroll date changes in ADP, monitor ADP timecard submission, approvals, timekeeping policy for exempt and non-exempt employees.Provides training and guidance to staff on ADP, and educate staff on payroll policies, procedures, and compliance requirements.Prepare payroll invoices and submit to Accounts Payable, process payroll journal entries and reconcile payroll accounts, prepare checks, and wire transfer requests for payroll deductions. Reviews payments for accuracy and submits on a timely basis.Analyze, prepare, and maintain spreadsheets that calculate monthly detail payroll activities.Stay abreast of federal, state, and Fair Labor Standards Act rule and laws governing payroll. Assist in the development of the Work Plans for areas of responsibility and for assigning adequate time frames for project completion.Analyze general ledger account reconciliations monthly. Investigate any variances and record any correcting or reclassification entries as necessary.Support AP functions, verify and record the year-end accrual transactions and appropriate reversal entries. Ensure and review all supporting documentations is attached and readily available. Maintain and create electronic files and arrange for off-site storage of paper files annually per the records retention policy.Prepare journal entries and reconciliations for the General Fund accounts. Monitor cash transfers from General Fund bank account and Payroll bank account . Support AP functions, verify and analyze cash requirement reports to identify if any corrective action is required.Stay abreast of accounting changes under GASB and GAAP in order to comply with RTA's financial reporting and journal entry requirements.Participate in the annual audit work for the General Fund and Payroll. Provide and prepare necessary schedules and analyses to the auditor's inquiries. Provides assistance with ACFR preparations and GASB 34 schedules.Act in a manner that is consistent with the RTA's strategic goals and objectives as approved by the Board of Directors. Ensure the confidentiality of all information.Assist with supporting the A/P functions to keep abreast on any changes/updates/backups during emergencies.Performs other related duties as require or assigned that contribute to the effectiveness of the department/division and the RTA.

The ideal candidate has the knowledge, skill, and abilities equivalent to the completion of a Bachelor's Degree in Business, Accounting or Finance. Master's Degree is a plus.

Must have a minimum of three (3) years' experience in payroll accounting, including payroll processing, multi-state payroll processing, reconciliations, financial reporting, and both month-end and year-end closing processes. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, and complex formula). Proficient in payroll software, such as ADP and experience with ERP systems like Infor Cloud Suite Financial are desirable. Proven ability to manage multiple projects while communicating effectively, supported by strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

The RTA offers a competitive compensation and benefits package. Relocation is not available.

For more information about the RTA, visit our website at https://www.rtachicago.org/.

Salary minimum to mid-point: $67,565.63 to $84,457.58

Candidates can expect salary offers that range from the minimum to the mid-point of the salary range. The RTA provides full pay ranges so candidates can consider their growth potential.

Salary Range: $67,565.63 to $101,348.45

Please submit a cover letter and resume to:

Regional Transportation Authority

Human Resources 24-PSA

175 W. Jackson, Suite 1550

Chicago, IL 60604

To apply online: create an account by selecting "Apply" or "Login and Register."

An Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer