Payroll Specialist

Salary: $60,000 - $70,000 annually ( eligible for 10% Bonus) Full Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday Job Summary The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the preparation and bi-weekly processing of complex, multi-company and multi-state payrolls. This includes managing multiple pay types, commissions, benefit accruals, pre-tax and after-tax deductions, and time and attendance records. The role ensures full compliance with payroll-related tax laws and coordinates closely with HR, Accounting, and external vendors. The Payroll Specialist will also assist with payroll-related reporting, HRIS integrations, and system implementations as needed. Job Description Key Responsibilities Process complex, multi-company, multi-state payrolls on a bi-weekly basis for all employees, including 1099 Independent Contractors. Validate and ensure accuracy of time and attendance data across pay groups; provide guidance and training to managers and employees as needed. Research, calculate, and process employee earnings, deductions, garnishments, and federal/state tax withholdings accurately and in compliance with applicable laws. Serve as the primary payroll contact for employees; research and resolve payroll discrepancies in a timely manner. Oversee compilation and organization of payroll exceptions, commissions and bonus reports, and employee expenses to ensure accurate payroll. Establish and maintain new entity payroll tax accounts, including federal, state, local, unemployment, and disability registrations. Coordinate payroll tax filings and ensure timely submission of required payments in partnership with Accounting. Process authorized employee changes throughout the employment cycle (hires, terminations, pay changes, etc.) and prepare summary reports for management. Maintain and reconcile payroll general ledger integrations with Accounting, ensuring accurate labor cost allocations. Prepare and distribute recurring and ad hoc payroll reports for management, and train managers on available self-service reporting tools. Complete required wage verifications for unemployment, disability, and workers’ compensation claims. Manage annual W-2 and 1099 processing. Draft and coordinate payroll-related employee communications with HR and management. Stay current on employment tax law changes and HR compliance requirements, ensuring consistent application across all payroll processes. Support HR and Accounting with system configuration and data structure changes related to workforce or organizational updates. Assist with HRIS module implementations, testing, and employee training. Help maintain payroll-related forms, policies, and resources. Participate in special projects or other duties as assigned. Required Qualifications & Skills: 3 - 5 years of related payroll experience in a multi-entity corporate environment. Minimum 3 years of experience managing payroll and timekeeping systems (UKG preferred). Proven expertise in payroll tax compliance, account setup, and reporting. Strong understanding of accounting principles, GL interfaces, and labor cost allocations. Knowledge of HR and Accounting data integration processes. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel. Must have reliable transportation and the ability to perform essential job functions. Preferred Qualifications & Skills: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field. Professional certifications such as CPP, CCP, PHR, or SPHR. Experience processing diverse pay types across multiple company codes and locations. Experience with benefit administration and vendor coordination a plus. Core Competencies: Confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information. Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines. Analytical thinker with effective problem-solving and follow-through skills. Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to train and support others. Independent and dependable work ethic with a collaborative mindset. Proactive planner with strong process management and continuous improvement mindset. #J-18808-Ljbffr