Accounting Specialist

Accounting Specialist

A well-established California law firm is seeking an Accounting Specialist to join its Finance team. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented professional with strong payroll and accounts payable experience who thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. The Accounting Specialist will play a key role in supporting financial operations, ensuring accurate payroll processing, managing vendor payments, and maintaining compliance with firm policies.

Responsibilities:

Payroll:

• Process semi-monthly and off-cycle payroll using the firm's HRIS (Dayforce)
• Ensure accurate calculation of wages, deductions, and withholdings
• Process wage garnishments, levies, and other court-ordered payments
• Review timesheets for accuracy prior to payroll processing
• Maintain and update employee payroll records, including terminations and status changes
• Resolve payroll and benefits discrepancies and respond to employee inquiries
• Maintain payroll documentation and ensure compliance with internal controls
• Generate and provide monthly payroll reports to management
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding employee compensation and sensitive HR matters

Accounts Payable:

• Process daily accounts payable and review vendor invoices
• Set up and maintain vendor accounts
• Reconcile expense reports and credit card statements for attorneys and staff
• Ensure compliance with firm expense policies
• Prepare and issue payments, including vendor and trust checks
• Obtain required approvals and signatures for payments
• Support month-end and year-end accounting close processes

Additional Responsibilities:

• Assist with financial reporting and accounting department projects
• Maintain accuracy and attention to detail under tight deadlines
• Collaborate with attorneys, staff, vendors, and leadership
• Provide support for other accounting and finance functions as needed

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent work experience
• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in payroll and accounts payable
• Experience in a law firm or professional services environment preferred
• Experience with accounting systems such as SurePoint preferred
• Strong understanding of payroll processes, compliance, and internal controls
• High level of integrity and ability to maintain strict confidentiality
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate with attorneys, staff, and vendors
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and accounting systems

Work Environment:

• Onsite role based in Oakland, CA with hybrid flexibility after probationary period
• Fast-paced, collaborative finance and accounting environment
• Requires reliability, accuracy, and ability to meet strict deadlines

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Health Savings Account (HSA) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Paid Time Off
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Additional firm-sponsored benefits