Senior Payroll & Accounting Specialist

Grace Dougan Consulting is a boutique accounting and advisory firm based in Novato, CA. We serve a portfolio of small and mid-size business clients across industries, providing outsourced accounting, payroll, and financial management services. Our team operates as a partner with each client and we customize our services based on what the client is looking for. This is a hybrid remote and in person full time position. The RoleWe are looking for a well-rounded accounting professional with deep payroll expertise and genuine fluency across the full accounting function. This is not a narrowly defined payroll-only role — you will own payroll from end to end while also contributing meaningfully to monthly close, accrual-basis financials, sales tax filings, and client reporting.The right candidate thrives in a multi-client environment, is comfortable shifting between clients and tasks throughout the day, and brings the experience to work independently without needing step-by-step direction.PayrollProcess full-cycle payroll for multiple clients using Gusto, ADP, Paychex, QuickBooks Payroll or another payroll provider. Process some manually entered union payrolls. Manage multi-state payroll, garnishments, and voluntary deductionsEnsure payroll tax filings (federal, state, local) are accurate and submitted on timeHandle off-cycle runs, terminations, and new hire setupAccounting & ReportingPrepare and post accrual-basis journal entries, including prepaid expenses, accrued liabilities, depreciation, and payroll-related accrualsPerform monthly bank and account reconciliationsManage accounts payable and accounts receivable for client portfoliosAssist with month-end and year-end close across multiple clientsPrepare and present financial statements Sales Tax & CompliancePrepare and file California sales and use tax returns (CDTFA); multi-state experience a plusMonitor nexus and taxability rules across client business activitiesCoordinate with clients and external CPAs during tax season and audit supportRequired Experience5+ years of hands-on payroll processing experience (multi-client or high-volume preferred)Strong command of accrual-basis accounting QuickBooks Online and/or Desktop proficiency Experience with Gusto, ADP, Paychex, or similar payroll platformsCalifornia sales tax filing experienceComfortable managing multiple clients simultaneously with competing deadlinesExcellent attention to detail and ability to self-review your own workPreferred (not required)Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or QuickBooks ProAdvisor designationAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related fieldMulti-state payroll tax experienceHow to ApplyPlease complete this application https://www.gracedouganconsulting.com/application-form and email your resume and cover letter to hr@gracedouganconsulting.com Grace Dougan Consulting is an equal opportunity employer.