Compensation Overview

Please note that this position is based in San Diego, CA. Acadia’s hybrid model requires this role to work in our office three days per week on average.

The Senior Payroll Analyst is responsible for semi-monthly payroll processing for a growing, multi-state organization, taking new hires, terminations, bonuses, leaves of absence (LOA), relocations, direct deposits, wage garnishments, vacation/sick accruals, tax changes, healthcare premium deductions, flexible spending account deductions, ESPP deductions, and 401(k) deductions into consideration. Works closely with the Payroll Manager to manage third-party payroll-related vendors, ensure compliance in all areas of payroll, and work directly with employees to resolve outstanding payroll inquiries.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Prepares and coordinates all facets of semi-monthly payroll processing in multiple states.
• Interprets company pay policies, e.g., vacation, LOA, disability, workers comp, government regulations, withholding exemptions and ensures appropriate deductions are calculated and applied in a multi-state payroll environment.
• Acts as a point-of-contact for employees with payroll-related concerns and/or questions.
• Proactively identifies and resolves payroll discrepancies and determines the most appropriate method of communication to employees.
• Works closely with the SR Payroll Manager to critically review and analyze current payroll policies, including payroll tax implications, to recommend and implement changes leading to best-practice operations.
• Ensures that payroll operations are conducted in accordance with Sarbanes-Oxley internal controls.
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality at all times related to compensation information.
• Works closely with the SR Payroll Manager to manage 3rd party payroll-related vendor relationships, including payroll software, 401k, and relocation firm.
• Prepares and maintains payroll records and reports, including standard and ad hoc reports, to ensure data integrity, accuracy, and timeliness as required by Finance, HR, and Equity Stock Administration.
• Reviews and reconciles quarterly and annual, federal and state, payroll tax returns.
• Reviews and distributes annual W-2s.
• Prepares returns for multiple states.
• Prepares semi-monthly 401(k) transmittals for employee deferrals and company match.
• Provides documentation for payroll, 401k, and benefit audits; prepares annual 401k 5500 non-discrimination testing and work with auditors for Workers Compensation audit
• Assists in implementing, writing, and maintaining standard operating procedures for Payroll.
• Maintains payroll files and records in accordance with company and regulatory requirements.
• Assists Sr Payroll Manager in year-end closing.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Works closely with Stock Administrators and have a strong understanding of all kinds of stock, including ESPP.
• Must know how to apply for tax ID’s especially for local taxes, school tax and Paid Leave
• Knowledge in amendments and understand Multi-jurisdiction
• Eagerness to master new systems

Education/Experience/Skills:

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, Human Resources or other related field. An equivalent combination of relevant education and applicable job experience may be considered. Minimum of 5 years of relevant progressive experience in payroll processing with a focus on commercial biotech organizations with multi-state operations. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is preferred.

• Strong understanding of Federal and multi-state wage and hour regulations and payroll tax filing procedures.
• Payroll subject matter expertise to advise the company, including knowledge of best practices regarding reimbursement of relocation expenses, taxable fringe benefits and auto allowances.
• Sarbanes Oxley (SOX) compliance experience.
• Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Strong ADP experience, additional experienced with Workday and Equity Edge a plus.
• Highly detail oriented, self-disciplined, and ability to work independently with limited direction to resolve discrepancies and issues.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills to ensure understanding of specific payroll matters.
• Effective interpersonal skills to resolve confidential and often sensitive issues related to compensation with employees.
• Strong and positive work ethic for a growing team environment.
• CPP Certification (Certified Payroll Professional)

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, see, talk or hear in a standard office environment. Employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.