Payroll Staff Accountant II at Princeton University

Payroll Staff Accountant responsible for processing PPPL’s subcontractor payroll and distribution in the PPPL business system. Support the Payroll team by performing administrative functions to ensure documentation is maintained for various payroll related transactions.

Ensures that all data and electronic processing of PPPL’s subcontractor payroll and distribution in the PPPL business system is completed on time and in accordance with PPPL policy. Perform administrative functions and maintain documentation for payroll related transactions.

A proud U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a longstanding leader in the science and innovation behind the development of fusion energy — a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. With an eye on the future and in response to national priorities, PPPL also has begun a strategic shift from a singular focus on fusion energy to a multi-focus approach that includes microelectronics, quantum information science, and sustainability science. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to make their mark on our world. PPPL aims to attract and support people with a rich variety of backgrounds, interests, experiences, and cultural viewpoints. We are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility and believe that each member of our team contributes to our scientific mission in their own unique way. Come join us!

• Prepare and process the PPPL subcontractor payroll related data in the PPPL business system in accordance with PPPL Policies. (20%)

  • Prepare, distribute, and reconcile entries for PPPL’s subcontractor payroll.

  • Coordinate and communicate with subcontractors, Princeton Technical Representatives (PTRs) and the Accounts Payable Team to ensure that subcontract payroll transactions
    are properly recorded.

• Coordinate with PPPL Human Resources to obtain and maintain backup documents including Employment/Status Authorizations (ESAs), Additional Payments, Off-cycle Payments, and awards and bonuses. (10%)

• Coordinate with the Budget Office to obtain and maintain documentation for Payroll RFBAs. (10%)

• Track non-productive time (NPT) balances for PPPL employees. (20%)

  • Monitor NPT overages and communicate with employees and supervisors to resolve and appropriate adjustments have been recorded.

  • Send overtime reports to supervisors and monitor that required approvals are obtained.

• Maintain the timesheet payroll exceptions and obtain proper employee and supervisor approvals. (20%)

• Maintain backup documentation for employee terminations and retirements. Analyze and adjust accounts as needed. (10%)

• Maintain and update the PPPL Payroll Policies and work instructions for applicable areas of responsibility. (5%)

  • Develop, evaluate, and implement work methods and transaction documentation for efficiencies, making recommendations for improvements.

• Responsible for other routine and special projects as requested by General Accounting & Payroll Manager or Head of Accounting. (5%)

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance with a minimum of 3 years’ related experience working in Accounting. 5-7 years of experience in lieu of the educational requirement may be considered.
• Experience in a DOE M&O Contractor environment is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Expertise in interpreting and applying policies and procedures.
• Expertise in performing financial functions including: preparation and posting of journal entries, adjusting entries, payroll accruals and encumbrances.
• Ability to independently research, interpret, analyze, compile, and present data and information.
• Decision making, problem-solving and analytical skills to independently solve complex issues requiring mature judgment, discretion and tact.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal to effectively prepare and deliver financial briefings, documentation, reports and financial advice to Laboratory personnel, and/or other external organizations and agencies.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively explain, negotiate, persuade and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with all levels of personnel, both internal and external to the Laboratory.
• Proven ability to independently devise new approaches, perform assignments and make decisions.
• Ability to work well under pressure and successfully meet hard deadlines/deliverables working outside normal hours as needed.
• Ability to work on a computer for extended periods of time.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint; and Google Applications.

Physical Requirements

• This position requires bending, reaching, and lifting of office files, reports or records, typically weighing 10 pounds or less.

Working Conditions:

• Hybrid position remote work capabilities 2 days per week with 3 days onsite.
• This position is a one year term position with a potential opportunity for extension or conversion.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

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