About Charles River Associates

For over 50 years, Charles River Associates has been a premier consulting firm that offers employees a place to learn from a diverse group of consultants, industry experts, and academics.  At CRA you will be exposed to leading minds who use economic, financial, and business analysis to solve complex world problems for an impressive roster of clients, including major law firms, Fortune 100 companies, and government agencies.  Through a collegial environment, formal and informal training opportunities, and a broad array of professional development resources, your experience at CRA will open doors for you as you launch your career.

Job Overview:

We are seeking a Compensation Accountant to join our Financial Administration team in our Boston Office. The Compensation Accountant will be responsible for processing all journal entries and account reconciliations related to payroll globally, including the US, UK, Canada, Belgium, Brazil, Czech, France, Germany, Norway, and Switzerland.  This role requires a detail-oriented professional with strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of international payroll regulations. The Compensation Accountant will work closely with global payroll managers to support regulatory changes and drive process improvements, ensuring compliance and efficiency across all regions.

Responsibilities

• Prepare journal entries related to payroll/compensation transactions.
• Perform monthly, quarterly, and annual account reconciliations for all compensation and payroll accounts.
• Ensure compliance with local payroll regulations in all countries where CRA has employees.
• Analyze payroll data and provide insights to management.
• Assist in audits and provide necessary documentation.
• Maintain and update payroll accounting policies and procedures.
• Resolve discrepancies and issues related to compensation/payroll accounting.
• Support global payroll managers to resolve local regulation changes and special projects as they arise.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in payroll accounting.
• Strong knowledge of international payroll regulations.
• Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Trustworthy with attention to confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; able to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Effective communication and organizational skills.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of payroll processes.
• Monitor and implement changes in payroll legislation to ensure compliance.
• Familiarity with ERP systems such as Oracle and Workday
• Previous experience working for a US publicly traded company preferred.
• Experience with SOX controls.

Work Location Flexibility

CRA creates a work environment that enables our colleagues to benefit from being together in the office to best deliver on our promise of career growth, mentorship and inclusivity. At the same time, we recognize that individuals realize a range of benefits when working from home periodically. We currently ask that individuals spend 3 to 4 days a week on average working in the office (which may include traveling to another CRA office), with specific days determined in coordination with your team. At certain times of the year (e.g. holiday periods), additional remote work options are offered to those whose work commitments permit it, although our offices remain open for those who choose or need to be there.

Our Commitment to Diversity

Charles River Associates is an equal opportunity employer. As part of our focus on equity and inclusion, we work to ensure a fair and consistent hiring process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.