Lead Payroll Specialist

Overview

The Lead Payroll Specialist is responsible for ensuring accurate and compliant payroll processing for multi-state and international payroll operations. This role provides advanced subject matter expertise across all areas of payroll, leads complex payroll activities including reconciliations and audits, and partners closely with Accounting, HR, and business leaders to strengthen payroll processes and controls.

This position plays a key role in driving process improvements, supporting strategic initiatives, and mentoring team members. It requires a high level of discretion and the ability to handle confidential information appropriately.

Responsibilities

• Own the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of end-to-end payroll operations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and applicable international regulations.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in payroll processes, tax regulations, and systems; provide guidance on complex issues and influence resolution strategies.
• Lead payroll reconciliations and audits, including variance identification, root cause analysis, and implementation of sustainable controls in partnership with Accounting.
• Take ownership of payroll tax filings and compliance activities, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and mitigating organizational risk.
• Lead cross-functional payroll initiatives and process improvements, identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, scalability, and system effectiveness.
• Anticipate and assess the impact of system, policy, or organizational changes; proactively prepare payroll processes, controls, and team readiness.
• Develop and deliver payroll reporting, insights, and analysis to support decision-making for management, employees, and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to resolve complex payroll issues and drive continuous improvement.
• Provide informal leadership through training, mentoring, and guidance to payroll team members; support knowledge sharing and skill development.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation required.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive payroll experience, including ownership of complex payroll operations in multi-state and/or international environments.
• Advanced expertise in payroll processing, payroll taxes, and applicable federal, state, and international regulations.
• Strong understanding of multi-jurisdictional payroll practices, including exposure to international payroll models such as Employer of Record (EOR) and third-party providers.
• Advanced proficiency in payroll and business systems, including UKG (UltiPro), Microsoft Dynamics 365, and Microsoft Office applications, with strong emphasis on Excel.
• Demonstrated ability to leverage systems and tools to drive efficiency, reporting, and process improvements.
• Proven ability to lead payroll reconciliations, audits, and complex issue resolution, including root cause analysis and implementation of sustainable solutions.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and provide actionable insights.
• High level of attention to detail, judgment, and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information.
• Openness to innovation by embracing and applying evolving technology and AI tools to enhance workflows, solve problems, and drive continuous improvement.
• Must have authorization to work permanently in the U.S.

Compensation & Benefits

• Target base compensation range: $32.25 - $43.75 per hour.
• Actual salary will be determined based on job-specific skills, education, training, job location, years of relevant experience, and comparison to other employees in similar roles.
• Flexible workplace options.
• Employee ownership opportunities.
• Competitive pay.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.

Location

This role supports multi-state and international payroll operations. Work location and schedule flexibility are supported, including remote, hybrid, or in-office arrangements.

Note: This is a drug-free workplace.