Sr. Payroll Specialist

Overview There’s never been a better time to join Stratus! As the market leader in brand implementation and maintenance, we transform how national brands connect with their customers. From exterior signage & interior branding to site refresh & remodel, from energy & lighting to repair & maintenance solutions, we deliver ideal solutions to meet all our client's branding needs. From our locations across the country, to our corporate headquarters in Mentor, Ohio, every employee is a stakeholder in Stratus’ success. This environment offers endless career opportunities for individuals with a commitment to customer service, focus on execution and bias for action. Job Summary: The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing for all employees while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role serves as a subject matter expert in payroll operations, supporting audits, system improvements, and process efficiencies. The Senior Payroll Specialist collaborates with People & Culture, Finance, and external vendors to resolve payroll-related inquiries and continuously enhance payroll processes. Responsibilities Process weekly and off-cycle payrolls, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, overtime, deductions, and tax withholdings. Review, audit, and reconcile payroll data, including timekeeping records, benefits deductions, and adjustments for accuracy and compliance. Act as a payroll subject matter expert, advising internal stakeholders on payroll policies, tax regulations, and compliance requirements. Maintain payroll systems and ensure payroll transactions align with company policies and government regulations. Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, employee inquiries, and escalated issues in a timely and professional manner. Process wage garnishments, child support orders, and other legally mandated payroll deductions. Ensure payroll tax filings, year-end reporting, W-2 distribution, and compliance with multi-state tax laws. Assist with system upgrades, implementation, and optimization of payroll software, ensuring seamless integration with People & Culture and accounting systems. Develop and maintain payroll process documentation, standard operating procedures, and training materials. Support internal and external payroll audits by providing necessary reports and documentation. Generate payroll reports and analytics, identifying trends and opportunities for process improvements. Stay updated on changes in payroll regulations, tax laws, and best practices to maintain compliance and efficiency. Qualifications Skills & Competencies: Extensive knowledge of weekly payroll processing, multi-state taxation, and compliance regulations. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for accuracy and detail. Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Workday, UKG) and Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUPs, Pivot Tables). Strong understanding of FLSA, wage and hour laws, payroll tax laws, and regulatory reporting. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact with employees at all levels of the organization. Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred. 5+ years of payroll processing experience in a multi-state environment, with weekly payroll experience preferred. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification preferred. Physical & Mental Demands: Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer. High level of concentration and ability to adapt to shifting priorities or deadlines. Working Conditions: Flexibility to work extended hours during payroll deadlines, quarter-end, and year-end reporting. Why Work With Us Supportive & Friendly Culture Manage national accounts for Fortune 500 companies Medical, Dental, Vision coverage options Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts Company paid Life Insurance 401k with Employer Contribution Company paid Short/Long Term Disability Generous Paid Time Off program + Holidays Career Growth Opportunities and Career Mapping Additional perks including Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Program, Identity Theft Protection, Critical Illness Plans, Commuter Benefits and various employee discount offerings from our Vendors Pay Range $70,000- $85,000 annually - Pay range listed reflects the potential pay for this role. The pay will depend on various factors, such as responsibilities of the position, job duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills. Not all positions posted will have a pay range listed. eeo/mfdv #J-18808-Ljbffr Stratus