Payroll and Accounting Specialist

KLR Executive Search Group is proud to partner with a sophisticated business and litigation law firm with offices in Rhode Island and Massachusetts in the search for a motivated Payroll and Accounting Specialist to join the firm’s Providence, RI office. This position is responsible for managing the firm’s payroll processes while also supporting the accounting department through a variety of financial and administrative functions, including accounts payable, expense processing, and financial recordkeeping. This role offers excellent long-term growth potential for individuals interested in developing their career within accounting, finance, or professional services operations.

Responsibilities:

• Manage all payroll functions to ensure timely, accurate, and compliant processing of bi-weekly and monthly payroll cycles, including salaries, benefits, taxes, garnishments, payroll updates, and related reconciliations.
• Maintain and enhance payroll and HRIS systems, including Paylocity, while preparing payroll records and implementing process improvements and best practices.
• Support accounting operations through accounts payable and receivable functions, including processing and reconciling vendor invoices, client payments, expense reports, and general ledger activity.
• Collaborate with internal departments to analyze financial data, ensure compliance with payroll and accounting regulations, and provide additional operational and administrative support as needed.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 2+ years of experience in payroll processing, accounts payable, or accounting operations required; associate degree in accounting, finance, or related field preferred.
• Strong knowledge of payroll procedures, payroll tax reporting, reconciliations, internal controls, and compliance requirements.
• Experience with payroll software and HRIS platforms required; Paylocity experience strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Adobe PDF, with strong analytical, organizational, and financial data management skills.
• Excellent communication, attention to detail, and time management skills, with the ability to maintain confidentiality, manage multiple priorities, and occasionally work outside regular business hours to meet critical deadlines.