Payroll Specialist

At Centerline Business Services, we elevate back-office functions to a strategic asset. Our solutions deliver precision and foresight into financial management and empower our clients by providing a compliance-centered framework that provides insight and drives strategy.

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to join our team. Reporting directly to the Payroll Manager, the Payroll Specialist will be responsible the accurate and timely processing of payroll for Centerline’s clients. The ideal candidate has a solid understanding of payroll processes, strong analytical skills, and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality. The new team member will be instrumental in working collaboratively with the Accounting and HR departments.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

• Payroll Processing & Audit Oversight: Accurately process payroll in a timely manner, ensuring compliance with internal policies and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Partner with the Payroll Manager to conduct comprehensive audits, validating data related to rate changes, deductions, shift differentials, adjustments, new hires, terminations, and other payroll transactions.
• Data Management & System Administration: Enter and manage employee data, including compensation, deductions, and job changes within the payroll and HRM systems. Maintain data integrity and ensure timely, authorized updates to reflect employment changes.
• Issue Resolution & Account Reconciliation: Investigate and resolve payroll sdiscrepancies, retroactive adjustments, and off-cycle payments. Reconcile employee accounts receivable and payroll-related general ledger accounts to ensure financial accuracy.
• Compliance & Record-keeping: Ensure adherence to all payroll-related legal, regulatory, and policy requirements. Maintain accurate, confidential, and organized payroll records in accordance with retention policies and audit standards.
• Reporting & Year-End Processing: Prepare and distribute recurring payroll reports and tax filings, including monthly, quarterly, and annual reports (e.g., W-2, 1095-C). Support year-end reconciliation and compliance reporting activities.
• Benefits Support: Collaborate with the Benefits Specialist to administer 401(k) plans, including processing contributions, managing catch-up enrollments, and addressing employee inquiries regarding retirement benefits.
• s.Leave & Deduction Management: Maintain and validate vacation and paid time off balances. Accurately track garnishments and special payroll deductions, ensuring timely and compliant processing.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Serve as a liaison between Payroll, Human Resources, Accounting, and Finance teams to ensure consistent communication and alignment on employee data and financial entries.
• Training & Support: Provide guidance, task management, and training to OpCo payroll teams to support operational consistency and professional development.
• Customer Service & Continuous Improvement: Deliver responsive and professional support to internal departments, employees, and external vendors. Identify process improvement opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or a related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of progressive experience in payroll administration or related HR/Finance functions.
• Experience with multi-state payroll processing and compliance strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in payroll systems (e.g., ADP, UKG, Workday, or similar HRIS/HRM platforms). Experience using ADP WFN & Paylocity preferred.
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills, including use of formulas, pivot tables, and data validation.
• Familiarity with general accounting principles and payroll tax regulations.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail in data entry and auditing.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify issues, propose solutions, and implement improvements.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment and ability to making meaning out of ambiguity.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams including HR, Finance, and Operations.
• Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to providing exceptional service to employees and stakeholders.
• Thorough knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with integrity and discretions.