Senior Payroll & Accounts Payable Specialist

Senior Payroll & Accounts Payable Specialist

Umoja Biopharma is an industry-leading biotech with locations in Seattle, WA and Louisville, CO, focused on transforming the treatment of cancer with a novel integrated immunotherapy platform. Our vision is to develop off-the-shelf therapies capable of treating any tumor, any time. We are a diverse and growing team working in brand-new facilities in downtown Seattle, Washington and Louisville, Colorado, and we are looking for innovative thinkers who are excited by groundbreaking science and technology, and passionate about squaring up to the challenges inherent to cutting-edge drug development.

Umoja Biopharma is seeking an experienced accounting professional to run our payroll function and provide assistance to accounts payable as needed. This individual will have knowledge of multi-state payroll processing best practices and procedures, relevant payroll-related standards, regulations, and other related requirements to process payroll timely and accurately. Previous accounts payable experience is not required, but a willingness to develop new skills and a commitment to accuracy are essential.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge of and ability to apply U.S. GAAP principles and adhere to SOX 404. The incumbent will demonstrate the ability to adhere to the highest ethical standards, while multi-tasking and staying organized in a fast-paced environment.

This role can be based out of our Seattle, WA or Louisville, CO locations. This role is hybrid and will be onsite at least 2 days/week.

Payroll responsibilities include:

• Process and verify payroll cycles, including regular bi-weekly, off-cycle, and bonus payrolls for 165+ employees across multiple states.
• Manage the pay submission and approval process.
• Follow up with management on any time reporting questions or issues, ensuring timely and accurate time entry.
• Manage the setup and reconciliation of voluntary deductions and process and transmit tax payments and filings.
• Review the accuracy and completeness of payroll related data entered by HR for new hires, terminations, pay rate changes and deductions.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to payroll and tax withholding.
• Lead annual workers’ compensation audits and assist with external financial audits and 401(k) audits.
• Create and submit journal entries monthly for payroll, bonus accrual and PTO accruals.
• Reconcile payroll general ledger accounts and analyze reports for accuracy.
• Maintain and update the payroll/HRIS system, including creating and maintaining payroll codes and processing system updates.
• Generate various payroll-related reports, both manually and using computer systems.
• Ensure adherence to internal controls, payroll policies and procedures in accordance with SOX 404.
• Serve as an expert resource for employees and other departments on payroll procedures and related questions.
• Additional projects and tasks as assigned.

Accounts payable requirements include:

• Receive, review, code, and process vendor invoices, matching them to purchase orders (POs) and resolving discrepancies.
• Prepare and execute payments (checks, electronic transfers), monitor payment schedules, and ensure timely disbursements to avoid late fees.
• Communicate with vendors and internal departments to resolve payment inquiries and issues, fostering strong relationships.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of all AP transactions and related documents, ensuring compliance with policies.
• Partner with Accounts Payable Manager in preparing monthly accruals and account reconciliations.
• Assist with financial reporting, month-end/year-end closing processes, and audit preparation.
• Additional assignments or projects as needed.

The successful candidate will have:

• Minimum of 5 years relevant work experience in payroll.
• Minimum of 5 years of multi-state US payroll with both exempt and non-exempt employees.
• Strong Excel and Office 365 skills, including pivot tables and V-lookups.
• Strong communication skills, experience working cross-functionally with HR and other key stakeholders.
• Detail oriented with the ability…