Payroll Specialist

Overview

A well-established global organization specializing in professional development and leadership training is seeking a Payroll Specialist to join their team in Saranac Lake, New York. This role focuses on accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll processing, maintaining payroll records, and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. The position involves clerical and bookkeeping tasks, managing confidential employee data, collaborating with third-party payroll providers, and supporting payroll-related audits and HR policy compliance.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate payroll records and ensure correct employee compensation, including authorized withholdings and deductions.
• Manage employee master records and directories within the payroll system, ensuring confidentiality and accuracy.
• Process payroll through third-party providers and prepare journal entries to report payroll expenses.
• Generate ad hoc reports using payroll system report writers to fulfill internal and external data requests.
• Oversee quarterly and annual payroll tax filings, including W-2 reporting, ensuring compliance with applicable laws.
• Review employee timecards for completeness and accuracy, addressing discrepancies as needed.
• Maintain automated records for paid time off (PTO) and ensure accurate accruals.
• Process deductions such as retirement contributions, FSA elections, garnishments, and transit benefits, submitting them to appropriate agencies on schedule.
• Reconcile payroll-related accounts on the Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss statements.
• Prepare reports and analyses for auditors during annual financial and 403b audits.
• Train new hires and team members on timecard procedures and payroll processes.
• Participate in payroll-related projects to improve efficiency and compliance.
• Develop and maintain documentation of payroll processes and procedures.
• Support the HR team in maintaining company policies to ensure legal compliance.
• Provide backup support within the Finance department as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support organizational goals.

Requirements

• Associate's Degree in Business or related field with at least 2 years of relevant payroll experience, or a Bachelor's Degree in Business.
• Strong understanding of basic bookkeeping and financial transactions.
• Experience with payroll systems, preferably ADP, is highly preferred.
• Exceptional proficiency in MS Excel, with the ability to generate reports and analyze data effectively.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks accurately in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Proven problem-solving abilities and capacity to work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Strong communication skills for effective liaison with colleagues, external vendors, and regulatory agencies.
• Dependable with a strong work ethic and demonstrated reliability.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and work independently under general supervision.
• Creativity and flexibility to adapt to evolving processes and requirements.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Payroll processing
• Accounting
• Data analysis
• Financial reporting
• Regulatory compliance
• Customer service

Compensation & Benefits

The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package including competitive salary, health insurance options, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Additional benefits may include flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, and employee assistance programs.

Location

Saranac Lake, New York

Equal Opportunity

The employer is an equal opportunity organization committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees and applicants are treated fairly regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Diversity is valued as a driver of innovation and equity in the workplace.