Accountant / Bookkeeper / Payroll & Benefits Administrator – 1031 Exchange Company

Accountant / Bookkeeper / Payroll & Benefits Administrator – 1031 Exchange Company

Position Summary

We are seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Accountant / Bookkeeper to support the daily accounting operations of a fast-paced 1031 exchange company. This role is responsible for accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliations, wire tracking, financial recordkeeping, and assisting with reporting related to qualified intermediary transactions. The ideal candidate is organized, accurate, and comfortable working in a highly regulated environment involving large volumes of client funds and time-sensitive transactions.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily bookkeeping and accounting functions
• Process accounts payable, vendor payments, invoices, and expense tracking
• Manage accounts receivable, client billing, collections, and payment posting
• Reconcile trust, escrow, and operating bank accounts accurately and timely
• Monitor and record incoming and outgoing wire activity
• Maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing procedures
• Prepare journal entries and account reconciliations
• Support financial reporting and audit preparation
• Assist with cash management and transaction tracking
• Work closely with exchange counselors and operations staff to ensure accurate transaction accounting
• Maintain compliance with company policies and internal controls
• Safeguard confidential financial and client information
• Assist with administrative accounting tasks and special projects as needed
• Administer semi-monthly payroll accurately and timely, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
• Maintain payroll records, employee earnings, deductions, garnishments, and tax withholdings.
• Administer employee benefits, including health insurance, dental, vision, 401(k), and other company-sponsored benefit programs.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee payroll and benefits questions.
• Coordinate employee onboarding, including new hire paperwork, benefit enrollment, I-9 verification, E-Verify (if applicable), and orientation.
• Maintain accurate employee personnel files and HR records while ensuring confidentiality.
• Coordinate employee status changes, including promotions, compensation adjustments, leaves of absence, and terminations.
• Work with ADP or other payroll/HR systems to maintain employee records and ensure data accuracy.
• Assist with annual payroll reporting, including W-2 preparation, ACA reporting (if applicable), and payroll audits.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws, company policies, and benefit plan requirements.

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or equivalent work experience in related field preferred
• 5+ years of bookkeeping or accounting experience
• Experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, and bank reconciliations required
• Proficiency in QuickBooks and Microsoft Excel required
• Experience with escrow, banking, real estate, title, or 1031 exchange operations preferred
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience processing payroll and administering employee benefits preferred.
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now (or similar payroll/HRIS system) preferred.
• Knowledge of California payroll laws, wage and hour regulations, and employment practices preferred.
• Experience coordinating employee onboarding and maintaining personnel records.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in handling high-volume financial transactions
• Familiarity with trust or escrow accounting
• Knowledge of real estate transaction processes
• Experience supporting audits or financial reporting

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Bonus opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k)
• Professional development opportunities

Work Environment

• Full-time, in-office position
• Fast-paced financial services and real estate transaction environment
• High attention to detail and confidentiality required at all times