HR & Payroll Specialist

Lakeshore Talent is partnered with a growing organization that supports multiple school locations across several states in its search for an HR & Payroll Specialist to join their team. This role is responsible for managing payroll operations while also supporting core HR functions across multiple entities. This is a highly visible, service-oriented role requiring strong payroll expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate directly with leadership teams. The ideal candidate is proactive, solutions‑driven, and comfortable working in a fast‑paced, multi‑state environment. Type: Direct Hire Location: Lone Tree, CO (Park Meadows area) Schedule: Hybrid–2-3 days onsite/week Salary: $75,000–$80,000 Key Responsibilities Payroll Administration Process accurate and timely payroll across multiple entities and states Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and tax regulations Maintain payroll records including wages, deductions, time‑keeping, and leave tracking Perform payroll reconciliations and generate reporting on payroll expenses and tax liabilities Respond to employee inquiries related to pay, taxes, and deductions Support payroll audits and provide required documentation Assist with payroll system updates, implementations, or integrations Human Resources Support Assist with onboarding and offboarding processes, including documentation and system setup Maintain employee records and ensure HRIS data integrity Support benefits administration, including enrollments, changes, and employee communication Ensure compliance with employment laws and internal policies Assist in maintaining employee handbooks, policies, and procedures Support employee relations and performance management processes as needed Partner with leadership to address HR‑related needs across multiple locations Additional Responsibilities Participate in meetings with leadership, including occasional presentations on HR and benefits Support multiple locations and client groups simultaneously Occasional travel Qualifications 2–4+ years of payroll experience, with a background in multi‑entity and/or multi‑state environments Working knowledge of HR processes and employment practices Experience with payroll systems such as Paylocity, iSolved, UKG, or ADP Strong understanding of payroll regulations, tax requirements, and compliance Experience with payroll reconciliations and reporting Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail Strong communication and interpersonal skills Ability to handle confidential information with discretion Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting multiple locations or client groups Benefits administration experience, including vendor/broker interaction Experience setting up payroll tax accounts (withholding, unemployment, workers’ compensation, retirement) Familiarity with HRIS platforms and benefit systems Exposure to AI tools in day‑to‑day work Ideal Candidate Profile Personable and comfortable in a client‑facing role Self‑starter with strong problem‑solving skills and initiative Able to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders Comfortable working with a remote manager and collaborating via virtual tools (e.g., Microsoft Teams) Demonstrates stability in work history #J-18808-Ljbffr