Senior Payroll Specialist

Overview

This role supports accurate and timely payroll operations within the Finance Department’s Payroll Division. Responsibilities include assisting with payroll runs, reconciliations, and employee transactions such as garnishments, separations, and benefit deductions. The position also supports routine issue identification and resolution, helps with audits, and contributes to process improvements.

The Payroll Division processes end-to-end biweekly payroll for more than 5,500 full and part-time employees. After onboarding, a hybrid work schedule is available.

Responsibilities

• Perform end-to-end payroll processing, including data verification, audits, and corrections to ensure employees are paid accurately and on time
• Manage specialized payroll functions including garnishments, child support orders, terminations/separations, and retirements
• Support payroll-related account reconciliations by identifying discrepancies and working collaboratively to resolve them
• Maintain and prepare payroll spreadsheets, reports, and documentation that are accurate, up to date, and audit-ready
• Respond to employee and department inquiries about payroll matters, resolving issues or escalating as needed
• Assist with internal audits and compliance reviews, ensuring adherence to payroll policies, labor laws, and reporting requirements
• Maintain organized, confidential payroll records in line with retention policies and audit standards
• Perform related fiscal and administrative duties that support the Payroll Division and broader financial goals

Requirements

• Education and experience:
  • Associate's Degree or 2 Years of College in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, or related field, and 1 to 3 years' experience in billing, accounting, payroll, or a related field
  • OR any equivalent combination of training and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in payroll processing within a local government, public sector, or similarly structured organization, including familiarity with timekeeping systems, deductions, and payroll cycles
• Working knowledge of payroll regulations and compliance requirements, such as FLSA, tax withholdings, garnishments, and benefit deductions
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when reviewing payroll data, performing reconciliations, and/or preparing reports
• Proficiency with financial or payroll software systems (including Enterprise Resource Planning systems, timekeeping platforms, or Human Resources Information Systems) and Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet tools, along with Microsoft Office tools
• Excellent communication and customer service skills, including the ability to respond timely and accurately to employee inquiries and collaborate with internal departments
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, priorities, and deadlines while maintaining confidentiality and using sound judgment when handling sensitive payroll information

Compensation & Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule available after onboarding.

Location

• Raleigh, North Carolina