The Senior Accountant processes all NOLS payroll related information including international bi-weekly payrolls. Secondary responsibility lies with the processing and maintenance of other finance systems.

Key Logistical Information:

• Contract type: Full Time.

• Start date: Two weeks from the time of offer.

• Benefits: This position is eligible for Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Flexible Spending account, Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Long Term Disability, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Time off, 403(b), 403(b) contribution, and more.

• Questions: Please contact peopleteam@nols.edu

What does a Senior Accountant do?

You will be involved in the following activities:

• Responsible for a shared leadership role in planning and initiating payroll system improvements and problem solving. 

• Interact with all NOLS staff as needed regarding confidential payroll information.

• Interacts with IRS, state workers compensation agencies, Social Security Administration, State income tax offices. 

• Trains temporary staff and clerical staff in payroll tasks. 

• Shared responsibility for maintaining internal controls in payroll processes.

• Educating NOLS staff on NOLS payroll procedures and requirements.

Payroll Processing  

• Review, analyze and process payroll related documentation in the ADP payroll system. 

• Review individual payroll items for taxability including state, federal and workers compensation. 

• Review bi-weekly payroll for accuracy, reasonableness and correct expense distribution. 

• Monitor for controls: supervisor signature, W-4, overtime. 

• Ensure that all deductions for benefit premiums, flexible spending, tax sheltered annuities and employee receivables are taken on a timely basis and adjusted as needed.

Periodic Reconciliations: 

• Review deductions, payment history and general ledger to prepare government reports.   

• Assist in preparing state and federal returns (monthly, quarterly and annually).  

• Assist with periodic Work Comp audits and tax sheltered annuity audits.

What makes a great Senior Accountant at NOLS? 

We are looking for people who share our values and are keen to learn and develop their expertise. We are looking for candidates with the skills listed below. We expect to provide training and development support in some of the areas.

• A professional background in the field of payroll management is necessary. 

• Must have experience with ADP and high volume complex payrolls. 

• Requires familiarity with state and federal tax, tax-sheltered annuities, and pretax deductions. 

• Must be able to balance multiple priorities and deadlines and work independently. 

• Position requires strict confidentiality.

• Position requires computer experience including spreadsheets, computerized accounting systems, and word processing. 

• Must have good interpersonal and communication skills in working with NOLS staff payroll questions and willingness to work as a team with the accounting staff.

Who are we and what can we offer you?

NOLS is a nonprofit global wilderness school that seeks to help people step forward boldly as a leader.

We believe that anyone can be a leader; it is our role to provide the environment and training to help people discover their full potential. We do that in classrooms close to home and in remote wilderness areas around the world. We are an organization with heart, expertise, and wildness, and these qualities help us support powerful, authentic experiences.

NOLS really is a great place to work:

• We have locations in seven U.S. states, and six countries; and courses in all 50 U.S. states and over 10 countries.

• We have fantastic employee discounts on top outdoor gear brands

• We offer discounts on NOLS Courses for you and your family

• All employees can benefit of free Outdoor Equipment "Rental" at our various locations

• Insurance Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available at a special NOLS rate to seasonal employees. Full-time employees are eligible for benefits package. 

• Wellness Time: Accrued leave that may be used for many HR-approved reasons throughout the season.

• Employee Assistance Program: Access to counselors that are available 24/7 to assist employees with work-life balance concerns.

Additional Information

NOLS can currently employ remote employees who have legal working rights in the United States.

Pre-Employment Check

• A criminal background check is required from all NOLS employees.

• NOLS participates in E-verify for U.S. employees and other relevant employment verification systems based on location.

• Current NOLS employees please note it is NOLS policy to conduct an internal reference check with human resources and/or your current supervisor as part of the reference check process. If you have any questions or concerns about this process please contact peopleteam@nols.edu.

Equal Employment Opportunity

NOLS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetics information, disability unrelated to job or admission requirements, or status as a protected veteran. The school’s nondiscrimination policy applies to all phases of its employment process, its admission and financial aid programs, and to all other aspects of its educational programs and activities. Retaliation directed to any person who pursues a discrimination complaint or grievance, participates in a discrimination investigation, or otherwise opposes unlawful discrimination is prohibited.

Reasonable Accommodation

NOLS values community and fosters a sense of belonging for our employees and applicants. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations in the workplace because they embody these values, as well as our operating principle of promoting a positive, safe, and learning environment. Reasonable accommodations may be requested for disability; limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition; religion; and domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment. Reasonable accommodations may be requested at any point of the employment process, including during recruitment. Please email peopleteam@nols.edu with your request.