Payroll Specialist

Overview

A professional development organization is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Payroll Specialist to join their team in Saranac Lake, New York. This role is essential for ensuring accurate and timely processing of bi-weekly payrolls, maintaining detailed payroll records, and supporting compliance with federal and state regulations. The Payroll Specialist will collaborate closely with HR and finance departments to perform clerical, bookkeeping, and administrative payroll functions.

Responsibilities

• Maintain precise payroll records to ensure accurate compensation payments, including net pay, withholdings, and deductions for all employees.
• Manage employee master records and payroll directories with confidentiality and accuracy.
• Process payroll through third-party providers, ensuring timely and accurate disbursements.
• Prepare journal entries to reflect payroll expenses and accrued costs appropriately in financial statements.
• Generate ad hoc reports and analyses using payroll system report writers to meet internal and external requests.
• Oversee quarterly and annual payroll tax filings, including W-2 reporting, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Review employee timecards submitted by staff and supervisors for completeness and correctness.
• Maintain automated Paid Time Off (PTO) records for all employees, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Prepare and remit various deductions such as retirement contributions, FSA elections, garnishments, and transit benefits to respective agencies on schedule.
• Reconcile payroll-related Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss accounts to ensure accuracy of financial data.
• Assist auditors during annual financial and 403b audits by providing necessary reports and documentation.
• Train new hires and team members on payroll procedures and timecard submission protocols.
• Participate in payroll-related projects aimed at process improvement and system enhancements.
• Develop, document, and maintain standard operating procedures for payroll functions.
• Collaborate with HR to ensure company policies align with federal and state laws.
• Provide backup support within the finance department as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support organizational goals.

Requirements

• Associate’s Degree in Business, Finance, or related field with a minimum of 2 years of relevant payroll experience, or a Bachelor’s Degree in Business or related discipline.
• Solid understanding of basic bookkeeping, financial transactions, and payroll processes.
• Familiarity with payroll software, preferably ADP or similar platforms.
• Strong proficiency in MS Excel, including complex data analysis and reporting.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, meeting strict deadlines without compromising accuracy.
• Proven problem-solving skills and sound judgment.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for collaboration with colleagues and external agencies.
• Reliability, strong work ethic, and professionalism.
• Ability to follow instructions and adhere to established procedures under general supervision.
• Creativity and flexibility to adapt to evolving organizational needs.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Payroll processing
• Accounting
• Data analysis
• Regulatory compliance
• Financial reporting
• HRIS systems

Compensation & Benefits

The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package including competitive compensation, health insurance options, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Employees are encouraged to participate in ongoing training and leadership development programs. The work environment supports collaboration, inclusivity, and continuous improvement, with opportunities for career advancement.

Location

Saranac Lake, New York, USA