Payroll Specialist

Careerscape is recruiting on behalf of our client for an entry-level Payroll Specialist to join their growing finance team on a fully remote basis. This is a great opportunity for someone early in their career to build a strong foundation in payroll operations, compliance, and HRIS systems while working alongside experienced accounting and HR professionals.

Day to day, you will process payroll for a defined employee population, respond to pay-related questions, and keep records accurate and audit-ready. The role suits someone detail-oriented, comfortable with numbers and deadlines, and eager to learn payroll regulations and systems from the ground up. You will thrive here if you enjoy quiet, methodical work that has a direct and visible impact on every employee's paycheck.

Responsibilities

• Process biweekly or semimonthly payroll for assigned employee groups
• Review and validate timekeeping data for accuracy prior to processing
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, and tax withholdings
• Assist with new hire, termination, and status change payroll entries
• Maintain accurate payroll records in the HRIS and payroll system
• Support reconciliation of payroll accounts each pay cycle
• Help prepare reports for finance, HR, and compliance purposes
• Assist with year-end payroll tasks including W-2 preparation
• Ensure compliance with federal and Massachusetts state payroll regulations
• Escalate discrepancies or system issues to senior payroll staff

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required, associate or bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business preferred
• 0 to 1 year of payroll, accounting, or related administrative experience
• Basic understanding of payroll concepts and wage and hour laws is a plus
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and general computer literacy
• Strong attention to detail and comfort working with numerical data
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Strong organizational skills and ability to meet recurring deadlines
• Willingness to learn payroll software and HRIS platforms on the job

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401k plan with employer match
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Fully remote position with flexible scheduling
• Home office equipment stipend
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance
• Professional development and training support
• Employee assistance program
• Opportunities for internal growth into senior payroll roles