Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist Location: New York, NY Work Arrangement: Hybrid, 4 days onsite / 1 day remote Experience: 3–5 years Industry: Financial Services *MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE WITH WORKDAY PAYROLL* The Opportunity A growing financial services firm in New York City is seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist to join its HR/People team. This is a hands-on role responsible for supporting the accurate and timely processing of payroll, with a particular focus on maintaining data integrity, resolving payroll inquiries, and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. The ideal candidate will have 3–5 years of payroll experience and hands-on experience processing payroll through Workday . This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organization where you will have meaningful ownership of the payroll process and the opportunity to develop alongside the business. Key Responsibilities Support the end-to-end processing of payroll, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. Process payroll using Workday , including employee changes, compensation updates, deductions, bonuses, and other payroll-related transactions. Review payroll data and conduct audits to identify and resolve discrepancies prior to payroll submission. Partner closely with HR, Finance, Benefits, and other internal stakeholders to ensure accurate employee and payroll information. Manage payroll-related inquiries from employees and provide timely, professional support. Process new hires, terminations, leaves of absence, salary changes, bonuses, and other employee lifecycle events. Assist with payroll reconciliations and reporting. Support year-end payroll activities, including W-2 processing and related reporting. Maintain accurate payroll records and documentation. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll and tax requirements. Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, controls, and efficiencies as the organization continues to grow. Support ad hoc payroll and HR projects as needed. Qualifications 3–5 years of payroll experience , preferably within financial services or another fast-paced, professional environment. Hands-on Workday payroll processing experience is required. Strong understanding of payroll processes, regulations, taxes, deductions, and compliance requirements. Experience supporting multi-state payroll is preferred. Strong Excel skills and comfort working with large sets of employee and payroll data. Excellent attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential employee information with discretion. Strong communication and problem-solving skills. Comfortable working in a growing environment where processes and responsibilities may continue to evolve.