Sr. Payroll Specialist

Overview

The organization is seeking a Senior Payroll Specialist responsible for accurate and timely payroll processing for all employees while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role acts as a subject matter expert in payroll operations, supports audits, system improvements, and process efficiencies, and collaborates with People & Culture, Finance, and external vendors to resolve payroll-related inquiries and enhance payroll processes.

Responsibilities

• Process weekly and off-cycle payrolls, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, overtime, deductions, and tax withholdings.
• Review, audit, and reconcile payroll data, including timekeeping records, benefits deductions, and adjustments for accuracy and compliance.
• Serve as a payroll subject matter expert, advising internal stakeholders on payroll policies, tax regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Maintain payroll systems and ensure payroll transactions comply with company policies and government regulations.
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, employee inquiries, and escalated issues promptly and professionally.
• Process wage garnishments, child support orders, and other legally mandated payroll deductions.
• Ensure payroll tax filings, year-end reporting, W-2 distribution, and compliance with multi-state tax laws.
• Assist with system upgrades, implementation, and optimization of payroll software, ensuring integration with People & Culture and accounting systems.
• Develop and maintain payroll process documentation, standard operating procedures, and training materials.
• Support internal and external payroll audits by providing necessary reports and documentation.
• Generate payroll reports and analytics to identify trends and opportunities for process improvements.
• Stay updated on changes in payroll regulations, tax laws, and best practices to maintain compliance and efficiency.

Qualifications

Skills & Competencies

• Extensive knowledge of weekly payroll processing, multi-state taxation, and compliance regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to accuracy and detail.
• Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Workday, UKG) and Microsoft Excel (including VLOOKUPs and Pivot Tables).
• Strong understanding of FLSA, wage and hour laws, payroll tax laws, and regulatory reporting.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of interacting with employees at all organizational levels.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years payroll processing experience in a multi-state environment, with weekly payroll experience preferred.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification preferred.

Physical & Mental Demands

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer.
• High level of concentration and adaptability to shifting priorities or deadlines.

Working Conditions

• Flexibility to work extended hours during payroll deadlines, quarter-end, and year-end reporting.

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual salary range: $70,000 - $85,000, dependent on responsibilities, job duties, experience, and skills.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage options.
• Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts.
• Company-paid life insurance.
• 401(k) plan with employer contribution.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Generous paid time off program plus holidays.
• Additional benefits including pet insurance, employee assistance program, educational assistance program, identity theft protection, critical illness plans, commuter benefits, and various employee discounts.

Location

Corporate headquarters located in Mentor, Ohio, with multiple locations across the country.