Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for accurately processing payroll-related transactions and supporting day-to-day payroll administration for a 1,600+ employee organization. This role follows established payroll procedures and internal controls, assists with payroll records, deductions, reporting, reconciliations, employee questions, and timecard issues, and escalates complex or unusual matters to the Payroll Manager. The Payroll Specialist provides timely, accurate, confidential, and service-focused support to employees, supervisors, and the Human Resources team. Responsibilities Assist in processing assigned payroll transactions accurately and timely in accordance with established procedures, internal controls, and applicable federal, state, and local requirements. Review payroll coding, earnings, deductions, garnishments, direct deposits, tax information, and other payroll-related data as assigned. Research payroll discrepancies, timecard issues, employee questions, and routine payroll matters; resolve items within established authority and escalates complex issues to the Payroll Manager. Prepare, review, and distribute assigned payroll reports to support payroll processing, reconciliations, audits, compliance requests, and operational needs. Assist employees, supervisors, and leaders with routine payroll questions, timecard corrections, payroll forms, and payroll-related follow‑up. Provide user support and guidance on payroll, HRIS, and timekeeping processes in accordance with established procedures. Process assigned payroll‑related HRIS transactions, including new hires, status changes, terminations, and other payroll-impacting changes. Support accurate payroll-related benefit deductions and assists with routine employee questions regarding benefit deductions and payroll impacts. Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling employee payroll, benefits, and human resources information. Assist with communicating payroll, tax, benefit, and HR process updates as directed. Generate assigned ad hoc and operational reports from payroll systems for managers, audits, reconciliations, and compliance reporting support. Follow documented payroll procedures, internal controls, and standard work to support accuracy, compliance, efficiency, audit readiness, and business continuity. Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes and bring recommendations or concerns to the Payroll Manager. Uphold Nicolet's philosophy and policies by maintaining appropriate controls to ensure full compliance with applicable laws and regulations, thereby fulfilling legal responsibilities and enhancing the quality of services provided by Nicolet. Understand and communicate the value of diversity within the workplace and work successfully with others without regard to age, gender, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, culture, religion, disability status, socioeconomic status or other non‑job-related classification, aligning with Nicolet's policies on equal employment opportunities and non-discrimination, and pursuing inclusion and respect toward different perspectives. Perform all other duties as assigned. Qualifications Associate degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Human Resources, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation preferred. 3+ years of payroll administration experience, including payroll processing, payroll data entry, reporting, reconciliations, issue research, and employee support. Experience with Paycor HRIS system preferred. Proficiency with PC, phone system, general office equipment, HRIS, payroll, timekeeping, benefits, and reporting systems. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exercise sound judgment with sensitive employee and organizational information. Working knowledge of payroll processing, payroll taxation, wage and hour considerations, garnishments, payroll deductions, reconciliations, and payroll compliance requirements. Working knowledge of benefit programs, benefit deductions, and the payroll impact of benefit elections and changes. Strong attention to detail, accuracy, organization, follow-through, analytical, reconciliation, and problem-solving skills. Ability to follow established procedures, meet recurring deadlines, manage competing priorities, and escalates issues appropriately. Effective verbal and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to explain routine payroll matters clearly to employees, supervisors, leaders, and business partners. Self-motivated and resourceful with a continuous improvement mindset and willingness to support process improvements under the direction of the Payroll Manager. Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life Insurance 401(k) with a company match PTO & 11 ½ Paid Holidays The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and skills required for the position. Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled #J-18808-Ljbffr