Payroll & Stock Accountant

Title: Payroll & Stock Accountant

Location: San Mateo (onsite)

Compensation: $130,000 - $155,000

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Payroll & Stock Accountant to oversee payroll operations, equity administration, and related accounting activities. This role will be responsible for ensuring accurate payroll processing, maintaining compliance with applicable tax regulations, supporting equity accounting and administration, and partnering with cross-functional teams to provide timely financial and workforce reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Process multi-state U.S. payroll accurately and on schedule.
• Coordinate and support international payroll operations in partnership with external payroll providers.
• Administer employee benefit deductions, contributions, and related funding activities.
• Manage commission and incentive compensation calculations and payment processing.
• Support the administration of employee equity programs, including grants, exercises, terminations, and employee records.
• Maintain equity-related reporting and record stock-based compensation expense in accordance with accounting requirements.
• Prepare payroll-related journal entries and reconcile payroll accounts during the monthly close process.
• Partner with Human Resources to ensure payroll accuracy, process employee changes, and support headcount reporting.
• Ensure payroll tax compliance, including filings, registrations, notices, and related reporting requirements.
• Prepare and file indirect tax returns, including sales and use tax filings where applicable.
• Support external audits by providing documentation and responding to audit requests.
• Assist with special projects and process improvement initiatives as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in payroll accounting, general ledger accounting, and equity or stock compensation accounting.
• Strong understanding of payroll practices, multi-state payroll regulations, and tax compliance requirements.
• Experience supporting payroll operations across multiple jurisdictions and coordinating with third-party payroll providers preferred.
• Experience with payroll and ERP/accounting systems required.
• Knowledge of equity administration and stock-based compensation accounting, including cap table maintenance and share reconciliation.
• Experience administering commission, bonus, or incentive compensation programs preferred.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive payroll, compensation, and equity information with a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a high-growth or rapidly scaling organization.
• Familiarity with equity management platforms and payroll administration systems.
• Experience supporting external audits and implementing process improvements.