Senior Payroll Specialist

Work location: 100% in office, Lake Forest, CA Job Summary: The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for overseeing and executing end-to-end payroll operations, ensuring accurate and timely processing of employee compensation using ADP Workforce Now. This role requires a strong understanding of payroll systems, compliance regulations, and internal controls. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytical, and experienced in managing complex payroll functions in a fast-paced environment. Duties and Responsibilities: Administer, maintain, and optimize payroll processing systems, with primary responsibility for ADP Workforce Now Process payroll transactions accurately and on schedule, including salaries, benefits, garnishments, taxes, and other deductions Manage payroll updates such as new hires, terminations, and compensation changes Review and audit payroll data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance Prepare and maintain detailed payroll records, reports, and supporting documentation Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour laws and regulations Process wage garnishments, levies, and other involuntary deductions in accordance with legal requirements File payroll tax reports and voluntary deduction reports accurately and on time Prepare journal entries and support accounting transactions related to payroll Generate and analyze payroll reports, including quarterly reports for management Calculate wages, including overtime, bonuses, and adjustments Process employee requests such as paycheck advances and final pay for terminations Support internal and external audits by providing required payroll records and documentation Document, review, and update payroll procedures to improve efficiency and accuracy Identify opportunities for system and process improvements within ADP Workforce Now and payroll operations Perform additional duties as assigned Required Skills and Abilities: Extensive knowledge of payroll processing, including payroll taxes, reconciliations, and internal controls Hands-on experience with ADP WorkforceNow required Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills High level of accuracy and attention to detail Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines Strong communication and interpersonal skills Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resources, or related field required 5–8 years of progressive payroll experience, preferably in a high-volume environment Experience processing multi-state payroll and handling complex payroll scenarios preferred #J-18808-Ljbffr