_Sanford Burnham Prebys is a preeminent, independent biomedical research institute dedicated to understanding human biology and disease, and advancing scientific discoveries to profoundly impact human health. _

A JR. PAYROLL ACCOUNTANT position is available in the Finance department. The Junior Payroll Accountant will perform routine and non-routine accounting transactions and prepare basic to moderately complex financial/accounting analyses, reconciliations, audit schedules and reports with emphasis on payroll related transactions.

Primary Responsibilities

• Processes and posts semi-monthly payrolls to the general ledger
• Uploads direct deposit files to bank (currently, Bank of America)
• Calculates pay and processes off-cycle paychecks as needed for new hires, terminations, etc.
• Calculates retroactive pay adjustments including W4 and/or DE4 changes
• Completes tax deposits with the IRS and State of California
• Prepares payments for payroll withholdings – retirement plans, wage garnishments, flexible spending accounts, child support orders, etc.
• Prepares reconciliations for assigned payroll related accounts
• Investigates and resolves questions and/or discrepancies regarding employees’ pay
• Prepares and updates standard operating procedures (SOPs) for tasks assigned
• Assists with preparing retirement plan (403(b)) audit schedules and other related documentation
• Trains new personnel on time-keeping system and fields user questions
• Performs invoice tracking and reconciliations
• Assists with additional accounting duties as assigned

Required Skills Required Experience

• High School diploma and two years’ account or payroll related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skill and abilities have been attained is required
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or business related field preferred

Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities

• Work independently as well as in a team environment
• Excellent professional verbal/written communication to effectively communicate complex, difficult and/or sensitive accounting information
• Strong time management skills
• Able to analyze and resolve issues of moderate complexity
• Possess strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Demonstrate professional communication and interpersonal skills
• Professional proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Embody the Institute’s core values of Commitment, Collaboration, Communication, Community and Compassion

The scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute are making research breakthroughs in cancer, neuroscience, immunology, and children's disease. We are also at the forefront of finding solutions for health threats such as COVID-19, where we are working to identify drugs that may help millions of people. During our more than 40 year history, we have established an NCI-designated Cancer Center, designed one of the most sophisticated drug discovery centers in the nonprofit world, and created global collaborations that are leading to preventions, treatments and cures to improve human health.  

Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute is an Equal Opportunity employer – M/F/Veteran/Disability – committed to the hiring, advancement and fair treatment of all individuals. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected status as designated by federal, state or local law. For additional information about your rights as an applicant, click HERE. 

1. Good communication skills both oral and written. 2. Basic math skills. 3. Good computer skills and excellent typing skills. 4. Forklift or hand truck experience. 5. Good problem-solving abilities.