Payroll / Accounting Specialist

Payroll & Accounting Specialist Full-Cycle Payroll • Multi-State • Payroll Tax Compliance • Payroll Accounting • GL Reconciliation Location: Parsippany, NJ • Full-Time, M-F • Compensation: $65,000 - $75,000 a year Are you a skilled Payroll & Accounting Specialist who thrives in environments where accuracy, compliance, and financial integrity are paramount? This role is primarily responsible for end‑to‑end payroll operations across multiple states and entities, while also supporting key accounting functions including payroll‑related reconciliations and general ledger integration. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys owning payroll from start to finish and ensuring the financial accuracy that supports it. Core Payroll Responsibilities Own and process bi‑weekly multi‑state, multi‑entity payroll, including commissions, bonuses, variable compensation, and independent contractors. Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations, wage and hour laws, garnishments, and benefit deductions. Manage all payroll tax registrations, filings, and payments across jurisdictions. Lead year‑end payroll processing, including W‑2 and 1099 preparation and distribution. Audit and validate timekeeping, time and attendance, and PTO balances across all locations and pay groups. Investigate and resolve timekeeping exceptions, pay discrepancies, and payroll‑related issues in partnership with managers and HR. Process and verify all authorized payroll changes: new hires, terminations, compensation changes, and benefit updates. Serve as the primary contact for employee payroll questions, ensuring clear, prompt, and professional communication. Maintain data accuracy within payroll systems and HRIS platforms. Support system enhancements, testing, and improvement initiatives for HRIS/payroll modules. Develop and maintain payroll process documentation, SOPs, and internal workflow guides. Generate recurring and ad hoc payroll analytics and compensation reports for leadership. Key Accounting Responsibilities Prepare, review, and post payroll journal entries to ensure accurate financial reporting. Ensure successful integration of payroll data with the general ledger. Reconcile all payroll‑related balance sheet accounts (accrued wages, payroll taxes payable, benefit liabilities, etc.). Support month‑end and year‑end close activities related to payroll. Assist with internal controls monitoring, audit requests, and regulatory compliance documentation. Required Qualifications & Skills 5+ years of full‑cycle payroll experience, including multi‑state and multi‑entity payroll. Proven ability to independently manage payroll for 100+ employees. Strong knowledge of payroll tax regulations, filings, and compliance requirements. Experience reconciling payroll to the general ledger and supporting close processes. Hands‑on experience with UKG or comparable HRIS/payroll systems. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data validation, reconciliation tools). Reliable transportation and ability to perform the essential functions of the role. Preferred Qualifications CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) strongly preferred. Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field. Experience working in multi‑location, retail, or healthcare environments. Background supporting audits or regulatory reviews. Core Competencies Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and confidentiality. Strong ability to prioritize, multitask, and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment. Analytical thinker with strong problem‑solving and follow‑through skills. Calm, professional, and composed under pressure. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Independent, reliable, and collaborative work style. Proactive mindset with enthusiasm for process improvement and system optimization. #J-18808-Ljbffr