Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist Allentown or Houston | Human Resources The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll for hourly and salaried employees, including those covered by multiple collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as union contract requirements, and serves as a key liaison within the HR function. How You’ll Power the Future At Talen Energy, your work directly supports safe, reliable power generation. In this role, you’ll move beyond day‑to‑day contributions to drive meaningful change. Payroll Processing Process multi‑state bi‑weekly and off‑cycle payrolls for union and non‑union employees under several EINs. Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, shift differentials, bonuses, garnishments, and deductions. Maintain payroll records in compliance with company policies and legal requirements. Interpret and apply collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) to payroll processing. Manage union‑specific pay rules including overtime rules and premiums, shift differentials and job classifications, vacation, holiday, and sick pay accruals, retroactive pay adjustments. Calculate and process union dues, fees, and benefit contributions accurately. Coordinate with HR Business Partners regarding payroll inquiries and discrepancies. Compliance & Reporting Ensure compliance with FLSA, IRS regulations, state/local wage laws, and union agreements. Prepare and reconcile payroll reports, including tax filings, union reports, and certified payroll when applicable. Support audits by providing payroll documentation and responding to inquiries. Data Management & Systems Maintain accurate employee payroll data in HRIS/payroll systems (e.g., Workday, Equifax). Verify timekeeping system inputs and resolve discrepancies. Collaborate with HR Business Partners and Operations to ensure correct employee classification and pay rates. Minimum Requirements Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field. Preferred additional years of directly related experience may be accepted. Experience working with multiple union contracts. Preferred Qualifications 3+ years of payroll experience, with direct union payroll experience preferred. Strong understanding of collective bargaining agreements and union payroll rules. Knowledge of payroll laws and regulations (FLSA, tax withholding, garnishments). High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and confidentiality. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) a plus. Workday experience a plus. May require occasional extended hours during payroll cycles, audits, or contract implementations. Benefits Talen Energy offers an exceptional benefits program to its employees. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, vision, prescription plans, life insurance, and disability insurance. In addition, employees are eligible to participate in Talen Energy’s 401(k) plan. Talen Energy also provides competitive vacation and sick time to its employees. We are committed to providing a safe, drug and alcohol‑free workplace. Talen Energy is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to diversity and the strength it brings to the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, disability, perceived disability or any other protected characteristic as may be defined by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr