Overview
A finance team located in Saranac Lake, NY is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to manage accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll processing. This role involves maintaining payroll records, performing administrative bookkeeping, ensuring compliance with payroll laws and tax regulations, and collaborating with HR and finance departments. The position offers an opportunity to develop expertise in payroll management and compliance within a dynamic professional environment.
Responsibilities
- Maintain accurate and confidential payroll records, ensuring correct compensation payments including withholdings and deductions.
- Manage employee master data within the payroll system, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.
- Process bi-weekly payrolls through third-party providers, verifying and reconciling payroll data.
- Prepare journal entries to report payroll expenses and liabilities accurately in financial statements.
- Generate ad hoc reports and data analyses using payroll system report writers to support management and auditing.
- Oversee quarterly and annual payroll tax filings, including W-2 reporting, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Review employee timecards submitted by employees and supervisors for accuracy and completeness.
- Maintain automated records of paid time off (PTO), ensuring proper accruals and usage tracking.
- Handle deductions such as retirement contributions, FSA elections, garnishments, and transit benefits, submitting them to appropriate agencies on schedule.
- Reconcile payroll-related accounts on Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss statements.
- Assist auditors during annual financial and 403(b) audits by providing payroll documentation and reports.
- Train new hires and colleagues on payroll procedures, timecard submission, and compliance requirements.
- Participate in payroll and finance projects to improve processes and systems.
- Document payroll processes and maintain up-to-date process manuals.
- Support HR in maintaining company policies to ensure legal compliance.
- Provide coverage within the finance department as needed.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in payroll processing or related financial administration.
- Proficiency with payroll software systems and report writing tools.
- Strong understanding of payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
- Effective communication skills and ability to collaborate across departments.
- Experience with financial reconciliation and reporting.
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Payroll processing
- Financial reporting
- Compliance management
- Accounting principles
- Data analysis
- Payroll tax knowledge
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Health insurance options
- Retirement plans
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
- Flexible work environment
- Wellness programs promoting work-life balance
Location
Saranac Lake, NY