About Our School
The Metropolitan School of Panama (MET) is a leading international school located in Panama City, offering the full International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum from Early Childhood through Grade 12. As part of the Nord Anglia Education global family, MET offers a high-quality academic program within a caring and inclusive environment that promotes personal excellence, integrity, and global citizenship. Our vibrant community includes approximately 800 students from over 45 nationalities, supported by dedicated educators with diverse international experience.
At the MET, we are guided by our core belief in “Passion and Excellence in all we do,” inspiring students to become thoughtful, knowledgeable, and compassionate individuals prepared to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Job Description
The Payroll and Accounting Officer is responsible for managing and maintaining all payroll processes, records, account reconciliations, and filings with complete accuracy and compliance with internal policies and group procedures. This role ensures effective control measures are in place to support the school’s financial integrity and budget compliance.
The position also oversees general accounting functions, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, fixed assets, and cash management. A key aspect of the role is fostering clear and timely communication with co-workers and internal stakeholders to ensure operational efficiency and high-quality service delivery.
Reporting to: Director of Human Resources
Other Key Team Relationship: Director of Finance, Finance Analyst, and HR Generalist
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure proper reception and approval of payroll-related documents.
- Generate and distribute overtime reports to relevant department heads.
- Oversee initial payroll analysis and run the full payroll cycle, including closure.
- Review, analyze, and compare payroll data for accuracy.
- Prepare payroll reports for authorization and upload ACH files and checks.
- Ensure fund availability and proper cash management in payroll accounts.
- Send pay announcements and paystubs to employees.
- Perform GL account reconciliations and reserve analysis.
- Generate and pay SIPE invoices with proper reconciliation.
- Manage Anexo 03 and serve as administrator for pension and severance (PROFUTURO).
- Implement controls to improve payroll processes and perform cost center analysis.
Other Competencies
- Strong knowledge of bookkeeping, accounting principles, and financial reporting.
- Proficient in Excel, database tools, and handling large volumes of financial data.
- Skilled in analyzing and reconciling financial records and routine transactions.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Good judgment and problem-solving abilities.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work well with internal and external stakeholders.
- Maintains confidentiality with sensitive information.
- Familiar with local labor laws and payroll regulations
Required Skills/Abilities
- Education: Bachelor's degree in accounting preferable
- Bilingual also preferable but no less than 75% English skills both verbally and written
- Experience: At least 3 years of professional experience in payroll and accounting
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