Payroll Specialist

Payroll SpecialistOur client is an organization in the Waukesha area looking for a Payroll Specialist. Our client is looking for someone with extensive payroll experience, a strong accounting background, and the ability to support both payroll and broader finance operations. This individual will play a key role in ensuring payroll accuracy while assisting with accounting functions and financial reporting.The salary range for this position is $75k–90k.The Payroll Specialist will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:Process payroll for employees across operating companies.Mix of weekly, bi-weekly, and semi-monthly payrolls.Maintain employee payroll records, including new hires, terminations, compensation changes, deductions, garnishments, and benefits.Reconcile payroll accounts and prepare payroll-related journal entries for the general ledger.Assist with month-end and year-end close activities, including payroll accruals, reconciliations, and reporting.Prepare payroll tax filings and support payroll tax compliance activities.Respond to employee payroll questions and resolve payroll discrepancies in a timely and professional manner.Support accounts payable, account reconciliations, and other general accounting responsibilities as needed.Assist with financial reporting, budgeting, and other finance department initiatives.Partner with Human Resources and Finance to ensure payroll processes align with company policies and regulatory requirements.Identify opportunities to improve payroll and accounting processes while maintaining strong internal controls.Support audits by preparing payroll documentation and responding to auditor requests.Participate in special projects and other finance-related responsibilities as assigned.The Payroll Specialist will possess the following:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field preferred.5+ years of payroll experience required.Experience supporting accounting and finance functions beyond payroll strongly preferred.Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and payroll best practices.Experience with payroll software, ERP/accounting systems, and Microsoft Excel.Strong understanding of general accounting principles and account reconciliations.Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work effectively across departments.Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality in a fast-paced environment.Equal Opportunity EmployerThe compensation philosophy reflects the Company's reasonable expectation at the time of posting. Actual compensation is influenced by a variety of factors including, but not limited to, skills, experience level, and overall qualifications. This role may also be eligible to participate in a discretionary incentive program, subject to the rules governing the program.