Payroll Specialist

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of payroll processes, tax regulations, and labor laws, as well as the ability to ensure accurate and timely processing of employee pay and related benefits. The Payroll Specialist will be responsible for maintaining accurate payroll records, calculating wages, deductions, and benefits, and resolving any payroll-related issues. This role requires a high degree of professionalism, discretion, and an ability to work under tight deadlines.

Primary Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly/monthly payroll for [company/organization], ensuring that all employees are paid accurately and on time.
• Review and verify timesheets, attendance records, and employee hours for accuracy.
• Calculate and ensure proper withholding for federal, state, and local taxes, as well as other deductions (e.g., benefits, retirement contributions, garnishments).
• Manage employee benefit deductions (e.g., health insurance, retirement plans, etc.), ensuring accuracy and compliance with plan guidelines.
• Reconcile payroll reports and accounts to ensure that all payroll data aligns with general ledger entries and company records.
• Generate and submit reports related to payroll, taxes, benefits, and other required documentation, including year-end forms (W-2, 1099, etc.).
• Stay up-to-date on federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations to ensure payroll processing adheres to applicable laws.
• Serve as the point of contact for employee payroll-related questions, addressing concerns and providing clear, accurate information regarding pay, deductions, and benefits.
• Maintain confidential and accurate employee payroll records and documentation, including tax filings, paystubs, and other related files.
• Assist with internal and external payroll audits, providing necessary documentation and ensuring compliance.
• Support the maintenance and updates of payroll software and systems to ensure data accuracy and compliance with evolving requirements.

Professional Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or certification in accounting, finance, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in payroll processing, preferably within [industry or company size].
• Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Paychex, QuickBooks, etc.) and Microsoft Excel; experience with HRIS systems a plus.
• Strong understanding of payroll procedures, tax laws, and benefits administration.
• Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail when processing payroll and maintaining records.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain payroll-related information to employees in a clear and professional manner.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to resolve payroll discrepancies or issues in a timely manner.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with integrity and discretion.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines.
• Certification as a **Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)** or similar credential.
• Experience with unionized workforce payroll (if applicable).
• Familiarity with multi-state payroll processing and compliance.

This is a full-time position with hours dictated by business needs. Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.