Payroll Specialist

Overview Payroll Specialist role at POET, a company focused on renewable resources and sustainable products. This on-site position is located in Sioux Falls, SD and reports to the Director of People & Culture Operations. Role involves bi-weekly payroll processing, time tracking administration, payroll tax compliance and reporting, and delivering accurate service to internal stakeholders. Responsibilities Manage all aspects of multi-state payroll processing on a bi-weekly schedule. Review and verify payroll tax data each cycle to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance. Handle timesheet revisions and time-related inquiries; process address or location changes and update tax elections as needed. Process child support orders and wage garnishments accurately and timely. Serve as primary point of contact for payroll inquiries from POET team members and internal stakeholders (on-site Administrative Coordinators, Finance, Tax, People & Culture). Ensure payroll processing is fully compliant with applicable company policies and federal, state, and local regulations. Maintain accurate, organized payroll records and collaborate with Corporate Tax on filings, reporting, and audit inquiries. Monitor legislative and regulatory changes and integrate updates into HRIS and payroll systems. Configure new state/local taxes in the HRIS as needed and maintain unemployment tax rates. Research system functionality, document issues, and test resolutions with the People & Culture Operations/Systems team. Develop and document best practices and standard operating procedures for payroll processes and related timesheet management. Qualifications & Skills Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, or Human Resources Management preferred; Associate’s degree with applicable experience considered. Experience: Payroll experience with progression by title; specific titles depend on experience. Payroll Coordinator: no experience required. Payroll Specialist: 2+ years. Senior Payroll Specialist: 5+ years; Workday or similar HRIS preferred and required at senior level. Strong understanding of payroll concepts, federal/state tax laws, and processing procedures. Ability to manage deadline-driven tasks with accuracy and efficiency. Certifications (Preferred): CPP, PHR, or SHRM-CP. Additional skills: understanding compensation structures and benefits administration a plus. Personal attributes: integrity and confidentiality, customer-focused, analytical with strong attention to detail, excellent organizational and time management, clear written and verbal communication, adaptability. Work Environment & Benefits This position operates in an office environment with open-concept design to promote collaboration. Benefits include a comprehensive package: health, dental, vision, Health Savings Account contributions, quarterly profit-sharing and bi-annual incentive bonuses, 401(k) with match, paid time off and holidays, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, relocation assistance, wellness programs, on-site or reimbursed fitness, and other perks. POET is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a discrimination- and harassment-free workplace. #J-18808-Ljbffr