Senior Payroll Specialist

Sr. Payroll SpecialistThe Sr. Payroll Specialist, reporting directly to the Payroll Manager, is responsible for the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll for The Dover Companies employees across multiple entities, locations, and states. This role serves as the primary backup to the Payroll Manager and is prepared to assume full payroll operations in the event of an absence or vacancy. The Sr. Payroll Specialist handles highly sensitive and confidential compensation data, leads payroll projects and initiatives, and partners with HR, Finance, and external vendors to strengthen payroll processes, controls, and compliance.The following duties are normal for this position. This list is not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.Process end-to-end bi-weekly payroll for exempt and non-exempt employees of The Dover Companies across multiple entities, locations, and statesServe as the primary backup to the Payroll Manager, with the knowledge and system access to assume full payroll operations, approvals, and transmission in the event of an absence or vacancyAudit and reconcile payroll prior to transmission, including verification of timesheets, worked hours, PTO, overtime, and adjustmentsLead payroll projects and initiatives such as system enhancements, process improvements, new entity or location set-ups, policy changes, and year-end activities from planning through implementationHandle highly sensitive and confidential information, including compensation, executive pay, tax, banking, and personal employee data, with the utmost discretion and integrityEnsure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage and hour, and tax laws, including multi-state requirementsSupport payroll tax reporting, filings, and year-end processes, and respond to tax agency notices and requests in partnership with the Payroll Manager and Payroll & Tax SpecialistProcess wage attachments (child support, garnishments, levies, etc.) and maintain accurate deduction recordsConduct regular audits of employee set-ups, deductions, and G/L mapping to ensure payroll data integrityPrepare and reconcile payroll-related general ledger entries and payables in partnership with FinanceAnalyze timeliness and accuracy of timesheet and PTO submissions by business unit and recommend corrective actionsResolve complex payroll discrepancies and escalated employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, and other payroll mattersCoordinate with external vendors, including the payroll software provider, auditors, and tax agencies, and review payroll software invoices for accuracy in billingSupport 401(k) integration, funding, and the investigation and resolution of contribution errors, partnering with the plan administrator and Accounting to ensure timely, accurate remittanceTrain, mentor, and provide guidance to Payroll Specialists, and serve as a subject matter expert on payroll processes and systemsDevelop and maintain written payroll procedures, desk manuals, and internal controls to support business continuityPrepare payroll reports and analysis for HR, Finance, and leadership as requestedOther duties as assignedThis position may involve a range of physical activities, including those outlined in the Essential Duties, but is not limited to them. This position may need to walk or stand for extended periods. This position may need to lift to fifteen (15) pounds. This position may need to move through areas of the corporate office or other worksites of the organization. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build relationships at all levels of the organization is required of this role. The individual in this position is responsible for maintaining a safe work environment by actively preventing accidents, preserving equipment, and promoting safe working practices. This role involves actively participating in all staff activities aimed at fostering teamwork, unity, and morale. The individual will contribute as a collaborative team player, working alongside colleagues to create a supportive and cohesive work environment. Individuals in this position are required to stay current on all training and ongoing education initiatives. They are expected to actively pursue self-improvement and embrace opportunities for continuous learning to enhance their skills and knowledge. This position is required to work onsite at the St. Louis Dover Companies Home Office, located at 300 Hunter Ave, St. Louis, MO. This role is not anticipated to travel.To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required.Associate's degree required; bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business, or a related field preferredFive (5)+ years of progressive payroll experience, including multi-state payroll in a high-volume, multi-entity organization, requiredExperience with Paylocity is preferredDemonstrated experience leading payroll projects or initiatives (e.g., system implementations, process improvements, audits) requiredIn-depth knowledge of payroll practices, employment tax laws, and wage and hour requirementsKnowledge of multi-state payroll, Missouri required; Illinois preferredExperience with Paylocity or a comparable payroll/HCM system requiredAdvanced Microsoft Excel skills and proficiency in Microsoft Suite requiredFundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) preferred; Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) strongly preferredProven ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential information with discretion and integrityStrong organization and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlinesExperience in senior living, construction, home health, hospice, and/or pharmacy is a plus Cedarhurst Senior Living