Senior Payroll Specialist

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies' core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

In this role, you will ensure accurate, compliant, and timely payroll processing across a high‑volume, multi‑state employee population. You will manage complex payroll transactions, support reporting and reconciliation activities, and serve as a key resource for employees and internal stakeholders. Your work will help maintain data integrity, strengthen payroll operations, and support organizational changes and process improvements.

Responsibilities

• Processes weekly or bi‑weekly multi‑state payrolls accurately and on time using ADP Workforce Now (WFN).
• Manages complex payroll transactions including bonuses, retroactive adjustments, off‑cycle checks, garnishments, and tax levies.
• Partners with Human Resources to validate employee data affecting payroll.
• Reconciles payroll prior to transmission to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Prepares and distributes payroll reports for Finance, audits, and internal stakeholders.
• Maintains compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour regulations, including Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requirements.
• Supports year‑end payroll activities, including Forms W‑2 and W‑2c.
• Investigates and resolves payroll discrepancies and implements corrective actions.
• Maintains payroll system data integrity and supports process improvements, audits, acquisitions, and special projects.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive U.S. payroll experience in multi‑state, high‑volume environments.
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now (WFN).
• Familiarity with Sarbanes‑Oxley (SOX) compliance requirements.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including VLOOKUP, PivotTables, and related data‑analysis functions.
• Strong knowledge of FLSA compliance and payroll tax regulations.
• Proven experience processing high‑volume payrolls accurately and on time.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and reconciliation skills.
• Familiarity with garnishment processing and priority.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a changing environment.
• Customer‑service orientation with a collaborative approach.

Preferred Qualifications

• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to confidentiality.
• Experience supporting benefits and retirement plan administration.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 5-7 years of payroll experience.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company‑paid life and AD\&D insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.