Payroll/Finance Controller Specialist

About the role

Athena is looking for a Payroll/Finance Controller Specialist to build and manage a scalable, compliant financial operation for its Guatemala office. The role bridges Finance and HR, ensuring accurate payroll processing, statutory compliance, and smooth accounting operations.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the Payroll Specialist with end‑to‑end payroll processing (monthly or bi‑weekly), including salaries, overtime, commissions, bonuses and deductions.
• Serve as backup for the Payroll Specialist when needed.
• Process mandatory Guatemalan statutory payments such as Bono 14, Aguinaldo and IGSS contributions, and file payroll tax reports.
• Reconcile payroll transactions with General Ledger accounts and prepare payroll journal entries.
• Maintain accurate financial records, process accounts payable via Tipalti, and post transactions in QuickBooks.
• Support month‑end and year‑end close activities.
• Onboard vendors, ensure proper approvals in Tipalti, and record vendor invoices promptly.
• Act as primary contact for external auditors and submit statutory reports to local government offices.
• Conduct payroll audits, maintain employee records in HRIS and payroll systems, and prepare documentation for government inspections.

Required profile

• Experience with Guatemalan payroll processing and statutory compliance (Bono 14, Aguinaldo, IGSS).
• Familiarity with accounting procedures, GL reconciliation and month‑end close.
• Ability to act as a liaison between Finance, HR and external auditors.

Required skills

• QuickBooks
• Tipalti
• HRIS (payroll system)