Payroll Specialist

ARES is an award-winning space and defense company, providing innovative, reliable, and cost-effective solutions on-time and within budget to high value-programs. Our clients include the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Missile Defense Agency, Space Force, Air Force Research Laboratory, and Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. ARES is an 100% employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This path allows us to continue to be an independently-managed company, focused on long-term success with an employee-centered culture. As owners, our employees are deeply invested in the success of our client's mission, creating a collaborative, productive work environment where everyone strives toward a common goal. We are looking for a detail-oriented and reliable Payroll Specialist to support payroll operations for a growing government contracting organization. This individual is responsible for processing payroll for more than 500 employees across multiple entities under a holding company structure. Our workforce spans over 25 states, requiring strong knowledge of multi-state payroll compliance. The ideal candidate has prior technical payroll expertise, experience working in a multi-state environment, and familiarity with government contracting requirements. This position will be a hybrid position based out of our McLean, VA headquarters and will require in-office work two to three days per week. Key Responsibilities Process our semi-monthly payroll for 550-600 employees across multiple companies/entities Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing, including wages, bonuses, deductions, and taxes across multiple states Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including multi-state and union-specific requirements Reconcile payroll reports, general ledger entries, and benefit deductions Coordinate with HR on employee data changes (new hires, terminations, promotions, multi-state transfers, etc.) Coordinate with management team to ensure timely and accurate completion of timecards for payroll processing Manage garnishments, levies, and other withholdings Support audits (internal and external), including DCAA audits as applicable Prepare payroll-related reports for leadership and finance Assist with year-end processing, including tax document preparation and distribution across multiple jurisdictions Ensure compliance with all state applications and filings Oversee and handle all payroll-related correspondence received at the Corporate office by mail Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes and ensure best practices Qualifications Required: At least 3 years of payroll processing experience in a multi-state environment Strong understanding of payroll laws, regulations, and compliance requirements Experience processing payroll for mid- to large-sized employee populations (200+ employees) Hands‑on experience with ADP Workforce Now payroll platform Experience with Deltek Costpoint High attention to detail and strong organizational skills Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., reconciliations, data analysis) Preferred: Experience processing payroll in a multi-entity environment Experience in a government contracting environment Experience working with union employee payroll processing Familiarity with DCAA compliance requirements Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation Key Competencies: Accuracy and attention to detail Ability to work independently Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Time management and ability to meet strict deadlines Effective communication and collaboration Customer service mindset when supporting employees, managers, and corporate team ARES Benefits: ARES offers a competitive compensation and benefit package. Full time employees may participate in: Medical Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance HSA/FSA Accounts Life & Disability Insurance Critical Illness & Accident Insurance ESOP 401(k) Plan Paid Time Off & Holiday ARES is an equal opportunity employer and complies with E-Verify. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law. ARES shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). #J-18808-Ljbffr