Senior Payroll Specialist

Senior Payroll Specialist (Emphasis on Termination & Final Pay Processing) - Hybrid in Lewisville The Senior Payroll Specialist will partner closely with the payroll team to support and execute accurate, timely payroll processing across the organization. This role plays a critical part in ensuring compliance, safeguarding data integrity, and delivering high-quality support to teammates and internal business partners. Strong emphasis on termination and final pay processing, as this is a critical area of focus for the Payroll team. In addition, the ideal candidate should possess advanced Excel skills, including experience working with large data sets, performing reconciliations, analyzing payroll information, and supporting reporting requirements. Extensive experience processing terminations and final pay in a multi-state environment Strong knowledge of payroll compliance and state-specific final pay requirements Advanced Excel proficiency, including data analysis and reconciliation experience Ability to manage high-volume payroll transactions with accuracy and attention to detail Experience supporting timekeeping and general payroll operations Experience with a background in the automotive industry and experience with flat-rate/piece-rate pay structures (often referred to as flag-tech pay or piece rate) would be nice to have Payroll Operations & Compliance Process end-to-end payroll for multi-state or multi-entity employee groups with precision and timeliness. Maintain payroll records, validate timekeeping data, and audit entries for accuracy. Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, employee inquiries, and escalated issues. Ensure payroll compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Prepare and reconcile payroll reports; assist with quarterly and year-end tax filings. Support updates, testing, and maintenance of payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Workday). Review and maintain garnishments, deductions, direct deposits, and tax setups. Partner with HR, Benefits, and Finance to ensure alignment and data accuracy. Assist with internal and external audits by preparing documentation and reports. Process Improvement & Workflow Development Recommend process enhancements that strengthen compliance, accuracy, and efficiency across the payroll lifecycle. Work with the Payroll team to develop documentation, SOPs, process maps, and training materials for long-term sustainability. Identify opportunities to streamline work between Payroll, HR, HRIS, Accounting/Finance, and ADP/vendor partners. System & Configuration Review Review payroll configuration and setup to ensure accurate configuration and reporting. Recommend system adjustments to support improved processes. Collaboration & Knowledge Transfer Work closely with Payroll teammates to mentor and upskill the team on improved payroll practices. Provide clear, actionable recommendations and present findings to leadership. Qualifications 5+ years of advanced payroll tax or operations experience including multistate and complex environments. Strong expertise with Workday and ADP or similar enterprise payroll platforms. Strong knowledge of payroll laws, wage and hour regulations, and tax rules. Proven ability to diagnose problems, manage exposure, and develop process solutions. Strong analytical, documentation, and communication skills. Ability to operate independently in consulting capacity. Preferred: CPP or FPC certification. Experience with multi federal/state entity or high-volume organizations. Key Competencies Strategic and analytical problem solving. High accuracy and attention to detail. Efficiency driven, with a focus on process sustainability. #J-18808-Ljbffr