Payroll Specialist

A growing real estate organization near Teaneck, NJ, is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to manage end-to-end payroll processing across a multi-entity, multi-state environment. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll for approximately 500 employees, including a mix of salaried and hourly, union and non-union staff. This is a high-impact role requiring strong technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally with HR and Finance. Responsibilities Process and manage full-cycle bi-weekly payroll for approximately 500 employees across multiple entities and states. Review, validate, and approve payroll for salaried and hourly employees (roughly 20% salaried / 80% hourly), including union (50 employees) and non-union populations. Ensure accurate tracking and approval of employee hours, overtime, and PTO. Maintain and audit employee payroll data in ADP (Workforce Now or similar ADP system), including pay rates, tax withholdings, and organizational assignments. Process payroll-related items such as bonuses, commissions, reimbursements, deductions, and wage garnishments. Administer union-related payroll components, including dues, health & welfare, and pension contributions. Reconcile payroll reports, investigate discrepancies, and resolve issues in a timely manner. Collaborate with HR and Finance to ensure alignment of employee data and payroll reporting. Assist with payroll journal entries and ensure proper allocation of payroll expenses across properties/entities. Support payroll tax filings, W-2 preparation, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Respond to employee payroll inquiries with professionalism and accuracy. Maintain up-to-date payroll procedures and assist with training materials and onboarding support. Contribute to payroll-related projects, including audits (401(k), workers’ compensation) and system/process improvements. Generate and distribute payroll reports to internal stakeholders. Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll and employee information. Qualifications 3-7 years of full-cycle payroll experience in a multi-state environment. Experience processing payroll for both hourly and salaried employees; union payroll exposure is a plus. Hands‑on experience with ADP Workforce Now (or similar ADP systems). Solid understanding of payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements. Experience with payroll tax filings and reporting. High level of accuracy, organization, and ability to manage multiple deadlines. Strong communication skills with the ability to interact across departments and employee levels. Professionalism, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive information. Preferred Qualifications Experience in real estate or property management environments. Exposure to Illinois payroll regulations (or other complex state jurisdictions). Experience preparing payroll journal entries. Prior experience supporting audits (401(k), workers’ compensation, etc.). Compensation Salary range: $75,000 – $85,000. Salary is based on a range of factors that include relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and other job‑related qualifications. #J-18808-Ljbffr Soni Resources Group