Payroll Specialist

Overview

This role involves managing complex, full-cycle payroll processing and compliance oversight for 2,000+ hourly and salaried employees across multiple states. The position exercises independent judgment to ensure accuracy, identify and resolve discrepancies, and maintain compliance with federal, state, local, and bargaining unit contract regulations.

Classification: Non-Exempt / Non-Bargaining

Responsibilities

• Direct payroll processing for 2,000+ employees on weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly schedules; exercise judgment to identify discrepancies and determine corrective actions
• Proactively analyze and audit payroll data and employee records to identify errors, compliance issues, or system anomalies; determine root causes and solutions using independent judgment
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and bargaining unit contract laws and regulations; apply judgment to payroll process requirements
• Manage HRIS systems independently, including updating employee records for taxes, earnings, deductions, and time entry
• Investigate and resolve internal and external inquiries regarding employee records, compensation, deductions, and tax matters; determine resolutions using independent judgment
• Collaborate with HR and Finance on payroll processes, policy development, and control frameworks; partner on complex compensation and employee record issues
• Maintain internal controls and audit documentation; work with internal and external auditors to ensure compliance and system integrity
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in payroll administration
• Proven ability to exercise independent judgment regarding payroll accuracy and compliance
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to proactively identify and resolve complex payroll issues
• Demonstrated expertise in federal, state, and local payroll tax and labor law compliance
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Highly organized, detail-oriented professional with the ability to manage multiple priorities under strict deadlines
• Proficiency with HRIS software and payroll systems; PeopleSoft experience is a plus

Compensation & Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Medical, Rx, Dental and Vision insurance
• Disability insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid vacation and personal days
• Paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Annual bonus program to eligible employees based upon organization performance

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, familial status, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.