Financial Analyst III

Payroll Specialist

We are seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist to support payroll operations by ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing. This role provides payroll subject matter expertise, resolves payroll issues, supports escalations, contributes to process improvements, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to maintain payroll accuracy and compliance. Success in this role is measured by payroll accuracy, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and effective collaboration with internal stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage payroll programs to ensure accurate payroll processing, payments, and reporting.
• Coordinate and execute payroll tax activities, garnishments, and general payroll operations while maintaining compliance.
• Lead and participate in payroll-related projects by coordinating timelines, facilitating meetings, validating system changes, and supporting testing activities.
• Develop and implement process improvements, standardization initiatives, and automation to improve payroll accuracy and operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including Human Resources, Legal, and Accounting, to resolve payroll-related issues and ensure compliance.
• Support payroll escalations and provide subject matter expertise.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree plus 2 years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, make sound decisions, and follow through on deliverables.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate complex information clearly.
• Strong customer service and consulting skills with the ability to support internal stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with experience using root cause analysis to identify and resolve issues.
• Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including:
• Pivot Tables
• VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP
• Complex formulas
• Experience analyzing large data sets and making data-driven recommendations.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and accomplish organizational objectives.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 4+ years of progressive payroll experience.
• Experience supporting HR systems, payroll systems, reporting applications, and system integrations.
• Project or process management experience.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification.