Accountant 1 /Payroll Coordinator

The Accountant 1/Payroll Coordinator is a part of Peterson’s Accounting Team with their responsibilities split between processing bi-monthly payroll (30-40%) using Microsoft Dynamix AX, ADP PayForce, and TimeSaver Software and general accounting related duties (60-70%). Accountant is responsible for accounting duties performed that pertain to general transactional data verification and complex spreadsheets which calculate estimates. This role would be part of team that is fast paced and continues to strive to better utilize the technology for consistent and accurate results. This position would have a variety of tasks and projects to help with some of the daily, weekly and monthly close processes. Working with other accounting team members, the accountant will ensure that all accounting controls and SOPs are performed in accordance with GAAP and Corporate requirements. This position will aid the Finance and IT Departments to ensure that manual and system controls are in place and working as planned for accurate and timely financial reporting. This position will work with the Astec Industries corporate internal auditors to continually respond to SOX and internal controls testing.

Peterson is dedicated to a culture of Behavior Based SAFETY and a Healthy Environment!

Peterson Pacific Corp. is an Oregon based Manufacturing Corporation established in 1981. In 2007 Peterson Pacific was purchased by Astec Industries Inc. Peterson manufactures heavy equipment, is focused on innovation, and continuously developing new machines for the forestry and recycling markets. Peterson’s equipment includes, but is not limited to; horizontal grinders, disc and drum chippers, infield chain flail debarkers, blower trucks, etc.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ( MAY INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO) :

ACC OUNTANT

• Monthly, quarterly and annual sales tax filings.
• Update and create sales tax codes in Microsoft Dynamics AX, as needed.
• Ensure the business follows corporate policy (SOPs and SOX) and reports timely as requested for SOX and other audits.
• Maintains organized set of detailed records and files to document financial transactions.
• Validate and document SOX process controls
• ERP system user access segregation of duties maintenance
• Testing controls and pulling documents for SOX verification
• Perform in-depth reconciliations on key accounts monthly for review as required by new SOX review requirements.
• Spec key reports and KPIs to help develop good information for Managers and auditors
• Work with Accounting Team to handle audit requests and month end work papers
• Works closely with Accounting Team to close daily and monthly activity for timely and accurate financial statements
• Maintain “customer service concept”, professionally representing department both internally and externally
• Other duties and special projects as requested by Assistant Controller or other Management
• Must be available for overtime as required

PAYROLL PROCESSING

• Processing bi-monthly payroll for hourly and salaried employees.
• Processing all wage garnishments, direct deposits, sales commissions, overtime, PTO, and short term disability payments.
• Maintaining accurate and current data in the employee payroll system records to include updates or changes to tax allowances, benefits, residence, new hire, and terminated employees.
• Maintaining positive working relationship with Human Resources Department to audit or keep personnel changes up to date.
• Maintaining ADP PayForce database, Time Saver software administration, Microsoft Dynamics AX for the “time clock” calculation.
• Responding to questions and special requests from employees and regulatory agencies regarding taxes, payroll, and withholding questions or procedures.
• Creating and analyzing monthly, quarterly, and annual reports and ensuring information has been recorded accurately.
• Assuring compliance with multi-state payroll employment laws and Peterson/Astec policies.
• Miscellaneous other duties as directed by Supervisor or Peterson Management.

SAFETY

• Proficient in promoting safe and healthy work environment.
• Notifies supervisor of unsafe conditions.
• Adheres to established company policies and procedures paying special attention to safety regulations.
• Report defective materials, equipment, or questionable conditions to the supervisor/manager to identify and correct the root cause.
• Wears personal protective equipment in accordance with training guidelines.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY

• None

INTERNAL CONTROLS

• The Accountant/Payroll Coordinator is responsible for certain internal control responsibilities. These internal control responsibilities have been or will be verbally communicated to the Accountant/Payroll Coordinator and periodic feedback is provided as it relates to performance of internal control responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS :

Experience/Knowledge

• Advanced MS Excel user understanding how to build and maintain complex spreadsheets
• Possess strong accounting skills and deep understanding of SOX requirements and internal controls.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of work related experience in a manufacturing Accounting and/or Payroll experience desired.
• ADP PayForce payroll process experience preferred.
• Timesaver timekeeping experience preferred.
• Microsoft Dynamics AX ERP experience preferred.
• Experience maintaining a high level of professionalism, ethics and confidentiality.
• Continue to grow lean knowledge and use the tools to identify and assist with continuous improvement.

Education

• S. or B.A. degree in Accounting.

• Two to three years related experience.
• Or, equivalent combination of education and experience equivalent as deemed sufficient by management.

Job related skills

• Maintain positive, cooperative working relationships by working, acting, and communicating with various personalities getting along with customers, vendors, co-workers and management working both individually and as part of a team.
• Exceedingly well organized and able to work in a fast paced environment
• Flexible and adaptable in coping with pressures, deadlines while meeting multiple simultaneous deadlines and rapidly changing situations.

• Skill in working efficiently and accurately to keep up with detail oriented accounting and audit compliance requirements.

• Capacity to learn quickly.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Peterson Pacific Corporation does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, marital status, disability status, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, age, prior industrial injury, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected status under local, state or federal law.