Payroll Specialist

Job Title: Payroll SpecialistJob Description We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to join a growing team and ensure accurate, timely payroll processing. In this role, you will manage multi-state payroll, apply your strong knowledge of payroll regulations, and leverage UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) payroll systems to support employees and maintain full compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Responsibilities + Process end-to-end payroll accurately and on schedule for a multi-state employee population, ensuring all earnings, deductions, and taxes are correctly calculated. + Utilize UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) payroll software to prepare, review, and finalize payroll runs while maintaining accurate employee records. + Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax laws and wage and hour regulations in all jurisdictions where employees work. + Administer multi-state payroll activities, including new hire setup, terminations, changes in compensation, and updates to tax and benefit deductions. + Perform payroll reconciliations to verify data accuracy, identify discrepancies, and resolve issues before payroll is finalized. + Support benefits-related payroll processing by accurately applying benefit deductions and adjustments in coordination with HR and benefits teams. + Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll and employee information, following all relevant policies and best practices. + Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, taxes, and timekeeping, providing excellent customer service and clear explanations. + Investigate and resolve payroll issues and errors promptly, using strong problem-solving skills to prevent recurrence. + Use Microsoft Excel, including formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis tools, to audit payroll data, generate reports, and support decision-making. + Manage multiple payroll priorities and deadlines, ensuring all tasks are completed within established timeframes. + Collaborate with internal stakeholders to improve payroll processes, enhance accuracy, and support organizational goals. Essential Skills + Minimum 3 years of payroll processing experience, including hands-on administration of multi-state payroll. + Hands-on experience using UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) payroll software for day-to-day payroll operations. + Strong understanding of federal and state payroll tax laws and wage and hour regulations. + Experience processing payroll for 100 or more employees, preferably in a multi-state environment. + Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including the use of formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis for payroll reporting and audits. + Demonstrated ability to process payroll accurately and meet strict payroll deadlines. + Strong attention to detail with a commitment to data accuracy and error prevention. + Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information with discretion. + Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues, analyze data, and implement effective solutions. + Strong customer service skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally with employees and internal stakeholders. + Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of quality. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Experience working with benefits-related payroll deductions and adjustments. + Background in payroll reconciliation and auditing processes. + Comfort working with HR and finance teams to support cross-functional payroll initiatives. + Strong organizational skills and the ability to streamline and improve payroll processes. + High level of professionalism and integrity in handling payroll responsibilities. Work Environment The Payroll Specialist works in a professional office environment that relies heavily on technology-driven payroll and reporting tools. You will use UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) payroll systems and Microsoft Excel on a daily basis to process and analyze payroll data. The role follows a regular business schedule with firm deadlines around payroll cycles, requiring strong time management and focus during processing periods. The culture emphasizes accuracy, confidentiality, collaboration, and responsive support to employees, creating a supportive environment for a payroll professional who takes pride in delivering reliable results. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Houston, TX 77098. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $40.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Houston,TX 77098. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Aug 11, 2026. About Aston Carter Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® Platinum Award winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io (%View email address on click.appcast.io) for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.