Accounting and Payroll Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an Accounting and Payroll Specialist to join a wholesale distribution organization in Jackson, Michigan on a contract-to-permanent basis. This role supports day-to-day accounting operations and payroll administration while helping maintain accurate financial records across the business. The ideal candidate brings practical experience in core accounting processes, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, including travel to a branch location at least once per week.

Responsibilities:
• Manage daily accounting activities, including maintaining the general ledger and recording financial transactions with accuracy and timeliness.
• Process accounts payable and accounts receivable tasks, ensuring invoices, payments, and billing records are completed and reconciled properly.
• Administer full-cycle payroll, including check processing, deductions, benefit-related updates, and support for 401(k) and workers' compensation reporting.
• Assist with inventory-related accounting by reviewing records, verifying balances, and helping align financial data with operational activity.
• Prepare accruals and support month-end and year-end close activities by organizing documentation and completing account reconciliations.
• Generate reports and maintain supporting records using QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, and other accounting software tools.
• Compile and submit union reports and other required payroll or compliance-related documentation within established deadlines.
• Provide guidance to team members as needed and may help coordinate or oversee the work of other staff members.
• Travel to the company branch location at least once each week to support accounting and payroll operations across sites.• Background in accounting through formal education or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Experience using QuickBooks and working with accounting software systems in a business environment.
• Working knowledge of general ledger activity, accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, and account reconciliation.
• Demonstrated ability to process full-cycle payroll, including benefits administration and payroll-related reporting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for tracking, organizing, and analyzing financial information.
• Familiarity with month-end close, year-end procedures, accruals, and financial record maintenance.
• Understanding of inventory control concepts, workers' compensation administration, and 401(k)-related support tasks.
• Ability to work on-site in Jackson, Michigan and visit a branch office at least once per week.