Payroll Associate

Overview

This role involves managing timely and accurate payroll processing for employees across the U.S. (multi-state), Canada, and international locations. The Payroll Associate will also assist with payroll-related reporting, compliance, and special projects.

Responsibilities

• Process semi-monthly payroll ensuring compliance with country, federal, and state regulations.
• Review and verify timesheets, earnings, and deductions.
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries with clear explanations and timely resolutions.
• Collaborate with HR to process new hires, terminations, and compensation adjustments.
• Maintain accurate payroll records.
• Prepare payroll reconciliations related to benefits.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state payroll regulations.
• Assist with special payroll projects such as year-end reporting, system upgrades, and process improvements.
• Prepare month-end reconciliations of payroll-related general ledger accounts.
• Identify and explain variances in payroll accounts month to month and quarter to quarter.
• Maintain current payroll policies and flowcharts.
• Generate and analyze payroll reports to support finance, tax filings, and compliance audits.
• Lead year-end payroll activities including preparation and distribution of W-2s or other tax forms and year-end reconciliations.

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or a minimum of 2 years of payroll experience.
• Working knowledge of payroll laws and regulations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
• Experience with payroll systems such as UKG.
• Experience processing multi-state, Canadian, or international payroll.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• In-depth understanding of payroll processes.
• Ability to process accurate data while meeting deadlines.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Effective communication skills with employees, HR, Finance, and external agencies.
• Proficiency in Excel.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $60,000 - $75,000 plus bonus and benefits.
• Health, dental, and vision benefits.
• Flexible PTO, sick time prorated based on date of hire, all federal holidays (US only), plus 3 days of paid volunteer time.
• Eligibility for annual discretionary bonus plan for non-commissioned positions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), dependent care accounts, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) where applicable.
• Educational reimbursement.
• 401(k) with employer match or pension where applicable.
• Pet insurance (US only).
• Parental leave (US only).
• Hybrid and remote work model.

Location

This position supports payroll processing for employees in the U.S., Canada, and international locations.