Payroll Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a Payroll Specialist to support accurate and timely payroll operations for a Long-term Contract role. This position will focus on end-to-end payroll processing, account reconciliation, issue resolution, and reporting in a high-volume environment. The ideal candidate brings strong experience with multi-state payroll, withholding requirements, and payroll systems, with added value for expertise in payroll tax compliance.

Responsibilities:

• Process weekly and biweekly payroll cycles for employees, ensuring deadlines are met and pay is calculated correctly.

• Review timekeeping records, payroll summaries, deduction details, and related audit reports to confirm data accuracy before each payroll is finalized.

• Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies by analyzing prior payments, employee records, garnishments, deductions, and tax-related questions.

• Calculate complex pay items such as retroactive earnings, overpayments, accrual adjustments, incentive payments, and off-cycle checks when required.

• Reconcile payroll-related accounts and support month-end close activities through journal entry preparation and payroll posting validation.

• Track payroll trends from one cycle to the next, identify unusual changes, and escalate or correct issues as needed.

• Maintain payroll compliance and audit readiness by following established controls, documenting changes, and supporting regulatory requirements, including withholding tax considerations.

• Assist during organizational change periods by helping sustain payroll continuity and dependable employee payment processing.

• Utilize payroll and reporting tools, and business intelligence reporting, to produce accurate records and operational insights.

• At least 3 years of experience processing high-volume payroll in a fast-paced environment.

• Hands-on knowledge of full-cycle payroll administration across multiple states.

• Experience using payroll platforms.

• Working understanding of payroll accounting concepts, including taxes, reconciliations, and general ledger impacts.

• Ability to create, interpret, and analyze spreadsheets and payroll reports with proficiency in Excel, Word, and Outlook.

• Strong familiarity with payroll compliance requirements, including employee withholdings, garnishments, and audit controls.

• Associate degree in accounting, finance, human resources, or a related field.

• Additional strength in payroll tax compliance, especially withholding tax matters, is highly preferred.