Overview
A well-established professional development organization is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join their team in Saranac Lake, NY. This role is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of bi-weekly payrolls, maintaining payroll records, ensuring compliance with payroll regulations, and collaborating with various departments to support payroll operations.
Responsibilities
- Maintain accurate payroll records and ensure precise compensation payments, including authorized withholdings and deductions.
- Manage employee master records and directories within the payroll system, maintaining confidentiality and accuracy.
- Process payroll through a designated third-party provider, ensuring timely and correct disbursements.
- Prepare journal entries to accrue and report payroll expenses accurately in financial statements.
- Generate ad hoc reports and analyze payroll data using payroll system report writers.
- Oversee quarterly and annual payroll tax filings and compliance reporting, including W-2 submissions.
- Review employee timecards for completeness and accuracy, ensuring proper documentation of hours worked and leave taken.
- Maintain automated records of paid time off (PTO) for all employees.
- Handle deductions such as retirement contributions, FSA elections, mass transit, and garnishments, submitting them to appropriate agencies on schedule.
- Reconcile payroll-related accounts on the Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss statements.
- Assist auditors by providing payroll reports and documentation during annual financial and 403b audits.
- Train new hires and colleagues on payroll procedures and timecard submission.
- Participate in payroll-related projects and initiatives to improve efficiency and compliance.
- Develop and maintain documentation of payroll processes and procedures.
- Collaborate with HR to update and maintain company policies related to payroll and employee benefits.
- Provide coverage within the Finance department as needed.
- Perform additional duties to support organizational goals and payroll operations.
Requirements
- Minimum of a 2-year degree in Business or related field with at least 2 years of relevant payroll experience; or a 4-year degree with similar experience.
- Familiarity with basic bookkeeping and financial transactions.
- Experience with payroll systems such as ADP preferred.
- Strong Microsoft Excel skills.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure and prioritize tasks.
- Clear communication skills for interaction with colleagues and external partners.
- Reliability, strong work ethic, good judgment, and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations and ability to adapt to evolving compliance requirements.
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Payroll processing
- Accounting and financial reporting
- Tax compliance
- Data analysis
- Record keeping
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary aligned with industry standards.
- Comprehensive health insurance plans including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement plan options.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development.
- Supportive and inclusive work environment.
Location
Saranac Lake, NY