Payroll Analyst

Job Description Payroll Analyst - Accounting Team Description In this role, responsibilities include performing configuration within the payroll system, analyzing emerging payroll issues to ensure timely and accurate data processing, and proactively evaluating and implementing new functionality and processes. The position will support the Payroll Team by coordinating payroll activities, assisting during fluctuations in work volumes, and providing payroll knowledge as a functional subject matter expert. This senior-level position operates within a highly collaborative team environment and is expected to drive a positive culture through support, coaching, and mentoring. Additionally, the role involves project management responsibilities, encompassing Quality Assurance, payroll year-end activities, compensation cycles, accounting period-end and reconciliations, as well as tax-related tasks. Enterprise Core Competencies Requires proficiency in analytical abilities, reporting, customer focus, adaptability to change and innovation, strategic thinking, relationship building, influencing, results orientation, and the ability to inspire and lead others. Essential Functions Responsibilities include: Act as the Payroll team's subject matter expert in company-wide projects, leading Payroll-specific initiatives from project inception to completion, including timeline creation, meeting facilitation, duty delegation, project plan management, UAT testing, and data validation. Drive best practices and standardization, enhance automation, and identify/implement process improvements, procedures, and audits to optimize operational efficiency, accuracy, and legal compliance. Proactively communicate with team, management, process partners, and customers to resolve issues that may impact timely processing or result in data integrity issues. Implement quality control checks throughout the entire payroll production cycle. Train and support junior payroll team members. Deliver exceptional customer service to employees, vendors, and partners, actively participating in daily efforts to enhance customer service. Address escalations from customers, internal partners, and Payroll Leadership. Serve as a knowledgeable resource for team members and partners, addressing inquiries related to all aspects of the payroll process. Advocate for standard processes through documentation and training initiatives. Conduct research and analysis on payroll data to identify trends and issues, emphasizing accuracy. Assist in prioritizing and leading process improvement activities. Lead the team in accounting duties during Period End and Quarterly cycles, including Journal Entry and reconciliations. Support tax-related matters, including research, tax fallout resolution, and updates to SUI rates. Other tasks and projects as required Qualifications Minimum Required 3 years of progressive payroll experience. This position requires the ability to manage multiple tasks, work independently, set priorities, solve problems, and make decisions and follow-through Knowledge of Accounting, Payroll, reporting applications and system integrations. UKG Pro, Infor WFM, Sage, & Ceridian Intermediate to Advanced Excel knowledge including pivot tables, v-look-ups, complex formulas. Strong written and verbal skills; able to relay complex information succinctly This position requires the ability to apply analytical reasoning in problem assessment and resolution so must be proficient with using root cause analysis concepts Demonstrated ability to analyze data and make decisions using this information. High level of attention to detail and accuracy. Desired Solid understanding of payroll and payroll tax laws US Multi State Payroll Processing, Canada, & Puerto Rico Bachelor's Degree CPP certification Job Details Job Type: Full-time Salary: 70-75k Benefits Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, following an initial wait period Matched 401k after meeting qualifications Paid Parental Leave Life Insurance Paid vacation Employee Stock Purchase Program Open, casual, pet-friendly office environment Employee Discount on Zumiez product On-site skate park, on-site cafeteria Physical setting: Office Work Location: In person #J-18808-Ljbffr Zumiez