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Position Summary
The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for independently managing complex, end-to-end payroll processes while ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely execution. This role serves as a subject matter expert for payroll operations, supports audits and reporting, and partners closely with HR and Finance to resolve escalated payroll issues.
Key Responsibilities
Payroll Processing & Accuracy
Process full-cycle payroll for hourly and salaried employees across multiple pay groups
Handle complex payroll elements including bonuses, commissions, equity, retro pay, and off-cycle payments
Review and validate payroll registers prior to final submission
Resolve payroll discrepancies, adjustments, and employee inquiries with minimal supervision
Maintain payroll calendars and ensure all deadlines are met
Compliance & Regulatory Oversight
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations
Manage garnishments, tax levies, child support orders, and benefits deductions
Support payroll tax filings, amendments, and year-end activities (W-2s, W-3s)
Stay current on payroll legislation and recommend process updates as needed
Reconciliation & Reporting
Reconcile payroll reports to the general ledger
Assist with month-end and year-end close activities
Prepare payroll reports for Finance, HR, and leadership
Support internal and external audits by providing documentation and explanations
Systems & Process Improvement
Serve as a payroll systems expert (e.g., ADP, Workday, UKG, Ceridian, Paychex)
Support payroll system upgrades, implementations, and testing
Identify and implement process improvements and automation opportunities
Ensure data integrity between payroll, HRIS, timekeeping, and benefits systems
Collaboration & Leadership
Act as an escalation point for payroll issues and complex cases
Provide guidance and informal mentorship to junior payroll staff
Partner with HR, Benefits, Finance, and IT on payroll-related initiatives
Assist in developing payroll policies, procedures, and documentation
Qualifications & Skills
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field (preferred)
4-7+ years of progressive payroll experience
Strong knowledge of payroll regulations, tax compliance, and wage/hour laws
Experience processing multi-state payroll
Advanced proficiency in Excel (VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, pivot tables)
High attention to detail, discretion, and problem-solving skills
Ability to work independently in a deadline-driven environment
Preferred Qualifications
CPP (Certified Payroll Professional)
Experience in SOX-controlled or public company environments
Union payroll or complex pay structures
Multi-entity or global payroll exposure
