Payroll Specialist

Description

The Payroll Specialist owns end-to-end bi-weekly payroll processing for a 400-employee, multi-state organization. This role is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll across four entities, supporting salaried and hourly, full-time and part-time, union and non-union employees.

This position partners closely with Accounting, HR, and operational leaders to support compensation, benefits, compliance, and payroll integrity. The Payroll Specialist ensures all payroll practices are accurate, compliant, and aligned with internal policies and applicable laws.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the subject matter expert and sole processor for all payroll-related functions
• Process bi-weekly payroll, ensuring accuracy across multiple entities and employee types
• Administer payroll deductions, garnishments (child support, tax levies, student loans, writs), and benefit-related payments
• Research, analyze, and resolve payroll discrepancies and employee inquiries
• Generate and review audit reports to ensure payroll accuracy and data integrity
• Prepare payroll, tax, and financial reports for internal and external use
• Record payroll and benefits journal entries, including month-end accruals, ensuring alignment with accounting deadlines
• Maintain accurate payroll records, files, and documentation in compliance with regulations and best practices
• Partner with Accounting to ensure proper cost allocation and timely financial reporting
• Communicate clearly with employees and managers regarding payroll matters
• Recommend and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and maintain compliance
• Process HR-related vendor invoices and ensure timely payment
• Support additional payroll and HR-related duties as needed

Qualifications

• 3-7 years of full-cycle payroll experience in a multi-state environment
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, or related field (preferred)
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation (preferred)
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and HRIS/payroll systems (Paycor preferred)
• Solid understanding of General Ledger and payroll accounting
• In-depth knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations
• High attention to detail with strong organizational and prioritization skills
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, with a focus on process improvement
• Professional, discreet, and able to handle confidential information
• Effective communicator with the ability to work across teams and levels

Please be advised that ALL new hires will be required to successfully complete a criminal background investigation prior to employment. The receipt of satisfactory responses to reference requests, and the provision of satisfactory proof of an applicant's identity and legal authority to work in the United States are also required .