Payroll Specialist - Job Description

Position Summary

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely processing of payroll for all employees. This role handles payroll-related compliance, maintains employee payroll records, coordinates with HR and Finance, and provides exceptional support to employees regarding compensation-related inquiries.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Processing

• Process weekly, bi-weekly, or semi-monthly payroll for salaried and hourly employees.
• Review and validate timecards, timesheets, and attendance records for accuracy.
• Calculate wages, overtime, bonuses, commissions, deductions, and garnishments.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws.

Recordkeeping & Reporting

• Maintain accurate payroll records in HRIS/payroll systems.
• Prepare payroll reports for Finance, HR, and leadership.
• Reconcile payroll discrepancies and ensure proper general ledger entries.
• Support month-end and year-end processes including W-2s and 1099s.

Compliance & Controls

• Stay informed of changes in payroll tax regulations, wage laws, and benefits rules.
• Ensure payroll practices adhere to corporate policies and legal requirements.
• Submit payroll tax filings and assist with audits as needed.

Employee Support

• Respond to employee questions about pay, taxes, deductions, and direct deposit.
• Assist with onboarding and termination payroll processing.
• Manage updates to employee information, such as tax status or bank details.

Qualifications

Required

• 2-4 years of payroll processing experience.
• Strong understanding of payroll regulations (FLSA, wage laws, tax rules).
• Experience with payroll systems (ADP, Paychex, Ceridian, UKG, etc.).
• Proficient in Excel and HRIS systems.
• High attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.

Preferred

• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or FPC certification.
• Experience in multi-state payroll.
• Familiarity with benefits administration and accounting principles.

Key Skills

• Payroll accuracy & auditing
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Confidentiality and data integrity
• Customer service mindset
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work under deadlines