Payroll Specialist

Overview

Kimley-Horn, one of Fortune Magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For," is looking for an Payroll Specialist to join the corporate team in our Raleigh, NC location. This is not a remote position.

Responsibilities

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing payroll accurately and on time while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role supports payroll administration, employee records maintenance, tax reporting, benefit deductions, and payroll audits. The Payroll Specialist works closely with Human Resources, Finance, and employees to resolve payroll-related questions and ensure a high level of customer service.

• Process semimonthly payrolls accurately and timely
• Review and audit payroll data including hours worked, deductions, taxes, bonuses, and garnishments
• Maintain employee payroll records and ensure data accuracy in payroll systems
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and company payroll policies and procedures
• Process new hires, terminations, pay rate changes, and direct deposit updates
• Reconcile payroll reports and resolve discrepancies
• Prepare and submit payroll tax filings and year-end reporting including W-2s
• Manage wage garnishments, child support orders, levies, and other involuntary deductions
• Coordinate payroll-related benefit deductions including health insurance, retirement plans, and other voluntary deductions
• Assist with payroll audits and provide documentation as needed
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a professional and timely manner
• Maintain confidentiality of employee payroll information
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and payroll process efficiencies

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field preferred
• 2+ years of payroll processing experience preferred
• Knowledge of federal and state wage and hour laws
• Experience with payroll systems such as UKG Pro, or similar platforms
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills

Preferred Skills

• Multi-state payroll experience including California preferred
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification preferred
• Experience with payroll tax compliance and reporting
• Knowledge of garnishment processing and leave regulations
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple deadlines

Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

• Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
• Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
• Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
• Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.