Payroll Specialist

Client Overview

Our client is a mission-driven nonprofit organization in the education sector, committed to delivering equitable learning opportunities and impactful programs to communities nationwide. With a collaborative culture and a strong emphasis on integrity and compliance, the organization continues to grow and serve a diverse employee population across multiple locations. They are now looking for a Payroll Specialist .

Salary/Hourly Rate

$30/hr - $33/hr

Position Overview

The Payroll Specialist will be responsible for processing high-volume payroll for a large, multi-state workforce. This role requires strong attention to detail, compliance expertise, and the ability to manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate has experience working in nonprofit or education settings and is comfortable handling complex payroll scenarios, including hourly, salaried, union, and grant-funded employees.The Payroll Specialist will ensure accurate and timely payroll processing while maintaining compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, supporting both employees and internal stakeholders.

Responsibilities Of The Payroll Specialist

• Process bi-weekly or semi-monthly high-volume payroll (1,000+ employees) accurately and on time.
• Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Reconcile payroll discrepancies and resolve employee inquiries in a timely manner.
• Manage payroll-related reporting, including audits and compliance documentation.
• Coordinate with HR and Finance teams regarding employee data, benefits deductions, and tax updates.
• Process off-cycle payrolls, bonuses, retroactive payments, and adjustments as needed.
• Ensure proper handling of garnishments, benefits deductions, and retirement contributions.
• Assist with year-end payroll activities, including W-2 preparation and audits.
• Support system updates, process improvements, and payroll automation initiatives.

Required Experience/Skills For The Payroll Specialist

• 3+ years of high-volume payroll processing experience.
• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Experience processing multi-state payroll.
• Proficiency with payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Workday, Paychex, or similar).
• Advanced Excel skills (VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, data reconciliation).
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to manage strict deadlines and handle confidential information.

Preferred Experience/Skills For The Payroll Specialist

• Experience in nonprofit or education environments.
• Familiarity with union payroll and grant-funded payroll structures.
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification.
• Experience with HRIS/payroll integrations.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.

Education Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or a related field preferred (or equivalent work experience).

Benefits

• Atrium Care Package available, upon eligibility (including healthcare plans, discount programs, and paid time off).