Payroll Specialist

Execute U.S. payroll processing for assigned pay groups accurately, timely, and compliantly Process complex transactions including multi-state earnings, bonuses, retroactivity, terminations, off-cycle payrolls, and corrections Validate payroll inputs and outputs, perform audits, and complete reconciliations Maintain accurate payroll data flow between HRIS, timekeeping, benefits, and payroll systems Serve as subject-matter expert on U.S. payroll calculations, wage and hour rules, and taxation Resolve escalated payroll cases, perform root-cause analysis, and implement transactional corrective actions Escalate systemic or high-risk issues to the Cluster Lead with documentation and analysis Execute SOX payroll controls, audits, and documentation; support internal and external audits Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations Maintain SOPs, payroll calendars, documentation, job aids, and knowledge articles Identify process improvement and efficiency opportunities Partner with HR Operations, Benefits, Time, and Finance teams Support payroll projects, testing, and enhancements Gather, enter, upload, and validate payroll data for benefits, interfaces, W2Cs, time data, garnishments, supplemental payments, and termination payments Maintain company and employee payroll records and procedures Prepare and control payroll-related accruals, journal entries, authority reports, and year-end tax filings Requirements At least 4 years of experience as a payroll coordinator, lead, or in a similar role Good knowledge of accounting and payroll legislation, including SOX, U.S. FMLA, benefits, multi-jurisdiction reporting, final termination wages, and garnishments Working knowledge of payroll systems such as SAP, PS, Oracle, Kronos, and TM Comfortable using Excel functions, data tools, and VBA Analytical skills and good project/change management skills Strong communication skills and excellent attention to detail FPC or CPP certification or relevant working experience is nice to have Familiarity with payroll processes in the U.S./Canada is nice to have Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a relevant field is nice to have Core Competencies Demonstrates expertise in U.S. payroll processing, including compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, while effectively managing complex payroll transactions and audits. Proficient in payroll systems and data management, with a focus on process improvement and collaboration across HR and finance teams. Highest-signal resume keywords U.S. Payroll Processing SOX Compliance Payroll Systems (SAP, PS, Oracle, Kronos, TM) Analytical Skills FPC or CPP Certification ATS Optimization Keywords Hard Skills Payroll Processing Multi-State Earnings Payroll Audits Data Validation #J-18808-Ljbffr