
Are you looking for an accounting opportunity at an innovative, vertically integrated, 100 percent employee-owned company that is growing? Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) is seeking an Accountant (Payroll) to join our team and play a critical role in ensuring the timely and accurate processing of payroll while supporting financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and continuous process improvement.
The ideal candidate combines strong accounting and payroll knowledge with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to excel in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
As an Accountant (Payroll), under direct supervision, you will:
Process multi-state payroll accurately and timely, in compliance with company policies and applicable regulations.
Review and audit payroll data, including earnings, deductions, taxes, and timekeeping records.
Reconcile payroll accounts and prepare payroll-related journal entries and account analyses.
Support month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close activities related to payroll accounting.
Support internal and external audits by providing payroll-related reports and documentation.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and international payroll regulations, as applicable.
Assist with payroll system testing, implementations, process improvements, and compliance initiatives.
This job might be for you if you:
Have a bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance.
Have experience processing payroll and supporting payroll compliance activities.
Demonstrate exceptional accuracy, attention to detail, and analytical skills.
Are proficient in Microsoft Excel and experienced with payroll, HRIS, and ERP systems.
Take initiative, are self-motivated, and continuously seek opportunities to improve processes.
Communicate clearly and professionally, with strong written and verbal communication skills.
Can manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Have a working knowledge of accounting and finance principles, including GAAP, tax, and/or IFRS standards.
Preferred Qualifications:
Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) designation.
CPA, CMA, or CFA; or Master’s Degree in Finance or Accounting.
Experience with multi-state or multi-national payroll processing.
Experience with payroll tax reporting and compliance.
Tax, audit, project, and/or cost accounting experience.
Location
Pullman, WA - This position is located in Pullman, WA. Nestled in Eastern Washington, offering an exceptional quality of life. Embrace the charm of small-town living with spacious surroundings, no traffic hassles, and easy access to outdoor adventures in nearby mountains, rivers, and forests. Plus, benefit from excellent schools and universities in the area.
Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.
People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.
Pay Range Data
Accountant: $76,100 – $112,400 per year. We are open to reviewing additional candidates with more or less experience and the pay range may differ if filled at a different level. Our pay ranges are determined by job, responsibility, and location. We base our starting pay offer and title on location and job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills.
Communication with Applicants
We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAM filter or reach out to us at careers@selinc.com
SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.

SEL is a globally recognized designer and manufacturer of products and solutions that make electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical.
Legacy
Over forty years after introducing the first digital protective relay, our devices, software, and systems are found in 173 countries around the world.
Customer Focus
From our headquarters in Pullman, Washington, we partner with public utilities and private industry all over the world to offer the industry’s top, 10-year warranty and no-cost technical support for as long as our products remain in service.
Impact
SEL innovations continue to advance the global power grid—modernizing and protecting access to power for an increasingly diverse array of communities and global partners.
Follow us to learn more about the latest innovations and insights in the industry as we make the power grid and the critical devices within it smarter, more sustainable, and more resilient.