Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist

General Job Summary: The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing payroll accurately and timely for multiple pay groups while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This position serves as the primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries and is responsible for maintaining payroll records, preparing reports, supporting audits, and assisting with payroll tax filings and year-end activities. The Payroll Specialist partners closely with Human Resources and Finance to ensure payroll processes are efficient, accurate, and compliant.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

• Process and review bi-weekly, semi-monthly, and monthly payrolls.
• Review/validate data which affects payroll, including timesheet discrepancies and wage calculations
• Verify employee information including direct deposit and tax forms
• Prepare payroll reports for finance, HR, and leadership teams
• Audit payroll transactions and identify discrepancies or process improvements
• Maintain employee payroll records and ensure confidentiality of sensitive information
• Process wage garnishments and liens in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
• Research, analyze, and resolve payroll-related issues and inquiries.
• Communicate with employees and other departments in a professional manner to answer questions and resolve problems.
• Assist with quarterly payroll tax filings and year-end reporting, including Forms W-2.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and company payroll policies
• Establish payroll tax accounts and configure state tax codes within UKG while maintaining knowledge of applicable state payroll regulations and requirements.
• Coordinate with HR and Finance departments on payroll changes and updates
• Develop and document payroll procedures and internal controls
• Other tasks as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Associate's degree required; Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• 3+ years of payroll processing experience.
• Ability to quickly learn and utilize all necessary software programs. Preferred experience in UKG Ready.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and basic data analysis functions.
• Ability to multi-task and work under tight deadlines with flexibility.
• Excellent customer service skills are required.
• Provide timely and professional customer service to employees and managers regarding payroll matters.
• Attention to detail, well-developed written and verbal communication skills, ability to take initiative, as well as excellent time management and prioritization abilities is required.

Physical Requirements

• Work consistently requires walking, standing, sitting, lifting, reaching, stooping, bending, pushing, and pulling.
• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 10 pounds.
• Ability to concentrate on details.