Payroll Specialist

At ESS our motto is, “Every day counts!” We take opportunities every day to grow and better our company as well as our employees.

OVERVIEW: ESS is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join our Payroll Team. In this role, you'll help ensure accurate and timely payroll processing for employees across multiple locations while serving as a trusted resource for payroll-related questions and support.

This is an excellent opportunity for a payroll professional who enjoys problem-solving, data accuracy, employee support, and working collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. You'll work directly with the Payroll Director and partner with HR, Finance, and operational teams to help deliver an exceptional employee experience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Process weekly payroll accurately and on schedule through Paychex and our PEO partnership
• Respond to employee payroll questions with professionalism and urgency
• Assist employees with direct deposit enrollment, pay cards, and payroll-related requests
• Audit payroll data to ensure accuracy and compliance with federal, state, and local requirements
• Review payroll reports, identify discrepancies, and resolve issues proactively
• Generate recurring payroll and financial reports for leadership
• Support payroll projects, process improvements, and system enhancements
• Collaborate with HR, Accounting, Operations, and other departments to ensure accurate payroll administration
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive employee and compensation information
• Assist with additional payroll and administrative responsibilities as assigned

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• 1+ years of payroll processing experience
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Ability to meet strict payroll deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management abilities
• Intermediate to advanced computer skills, including Microsoft Excel
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Multi-state payroll experience
• Experience with Paychex, UKG, ADP, Paylocity, or similar payroll systems
• Experience working with large employee populations
• Knowledge of payroll tax regulations and wage-and-hour requirements

ESS ADVANTAGES:

• Competitive pay
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Nine paid holidays annually
• Paid sick time
• Paid volunteer time
• Career growth and advancement opportunities
• Collaborative and supportive team environment
• Opportunity to make an impact within a growing national organization

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide responsive and professional support to employees regarding payroll inquiries and concerns.
• Partner with our PEO and Paychex to process weekly payroll accurately and on time.
• Generate and distribute payroll and financial reports for department leaders on a weekly and monthly basis.
• Assist employees with direct deposit setup and pay card registration.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Support the Payroll Director with various administrative and payroll-related tasks.
• Participate in cross departmental collaboration projects.
• Participate in overtime during peak periods as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 1-2 years of previous payroll experience.
• High ethical standards and integrity, including confidentiality. 
• Ability to adhere to strict payroll deadlines.
• High attention to detail.
• Moderate to advanced computer skills.
• Excellent research and time management skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

  ESS ADVANTAGES:

• Health insurance
• 401(k)
• PTO
• Nine paid holidays
• Sick time
• Volunteer time
• Opportunity for growth

About ESS & Employment Information

ESS specializes in placing qualified K–12 personnel in daily, long-term, and permanent school district positions, including substitute teachers, aides, and other school support staff. With more than 900 school district partners nationwide, ESS supports over 5.5 million students each day. Since 2000, ESS has helped improve student achievement while providing meaningful opportunities for passionate educators through flexible schedules, comprehensive training, benefits, and ongoing professional development. Learn more at ESS.com .

Physical Requirements & Work Environment: Physical requirements may vary by assignment and location and may include sitting, standing, walking, and regular use of hands and arms. Close vision may be required for computer and detail-oriented work. Work is typically performed in a moderate-noise environment, such as an office or school setting.

Equal Opportunity & Employment Eligibility: ESS is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where all employees can succeed. ESS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and E-Verify employer . All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. ESS does not participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT extension programs and is unable to employ individuals whose work authorization is based solely on OPT or STEM OPT.

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