Lead Payroll Specialist

Lead Payroll Specialist

The Lead Payroll Specialist will manage the execution of end-to-end multi-state payroll operations, ensuring absolute precision and adherence to strict regulatory standards. As our primary system expert, you must possess advanced proficiency in Workday Payroll. Beyond technical execution, you will coach other payroll team members and promote a culture of continuous learning.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Execution & Workday Management

• End-to-End Processing: Lead the execution of regular, off-cycle, and year-end multi-state payroll cycles using Workday.
• System Optimization: Serve as the Workday subject matter expert, partnering with HRIS team on payroll configuration needs, troubleshooting system errors, and maximizing automated workflows.
• Data Integration: Oversee the accurate integration of timekeeping, benefits, bonuses, and tax deductions into the payroll system.

Compliance & Auditing

• Operational Compliance: Partner with the payroll tax to ensure accurate system configurations for federal, state, and local taxes, while maintaining internal ownership over FLSA standards, wage-and-hour laws, and regular payroll audits.
• Internal Controls: Execute rigorous pre- and post-payroll audits to ensure data integrity and safeguard internal SOX controls.

Coaching & Team Development

• Training Program: Design and deliver training documentation covering Workday procedures, compliance updates, and company policies.
• Performance Support: Provide regular constructive feedback to team members to elevate overall departmental performance.

Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum 6+ years of progressive experience in corporate payroll operations.
• Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• System Expertise: Advanced, hands-on experience processing payroll within Workday.
• Regulatory & Compliance Mastery: Proven track record of managing multi-state tax compliance, mitigating payroll risks, enforcing FLSA/labor law adherence, and ensuring precise execution of complex wage garnishments and statutory requirements.
• Leadership Skills: Demonstrated success in training, onboarding, or leading other payroll professionals.
• Analytical Mindset: Exceptional technical problem-solving skills with a focus on data accuracy and root-cause analysis.
• Certification (Preferred): Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation is highly desirable.

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.