Sr. Payroll Specialist

Overview

There’s never been a better time to join Stratus! As the market leader in brand implementation and maintenance, we transform how national brands connect with their customers. From exterior signage & interior branding to site refresh & remodel, from energy & lighting to repair & maintenance solutions, we deliver ideal solutions to meet all our client's branding needs.

From our locations across the country, to our corporate headquarters in Mentor, Ohio, every employee is a stakeholder in Stratus’ success. This environment offers endless career opportunities for individuals with a commitment to customer service, focus on execution and bias for action.

Job Summary: The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing for all employees while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role serves as a subject matter expert in payroll operations, supporting audits, system improvements, and process efficiencies. The Senior Payroll Specialist collaborates with People & Culture, Finance, and external vendors to resolve payroll-related inquiries and continuously enhance payroll processes.

Responsibilities

• Process weekly and off-cycle payrolls, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, overtime, deductions, and tax withholdings.
• Review, audit, and reconcile payroll data, including timekeeping records, benefits deductions, and adjustments for accuracy and compliance.
• Act as a payroll subject matter expert, advising internal stakeholders on payroll policies, tax regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Maintain payroll systems and ensure payroll transactions align with company policies and government regulations.
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, employee inquiries, and escalated issues in a timely and professional manner.
• Process wage garnishments, child support orders, and other legally mandated payroll deductions.
• Ensure payroll tax filings, year-end reporting, W-2 distribution, and compliance with multi-state tax laws.
• Assist with system upgrades, implementation, and optimization of payroll software, ensuring seamless integration with People & Culture and accounting systems.
• Develop and maintain payroll process documentation, standard operating procedures, and training materials.
• Support internal and external payroll audits by providing necessary reports and documentation.
• Generate payroll reports and analytics, identifying trends and opportunities for process improvements.
• Stay updated on changes in payroll regulations, tax laws, and best practices to maintain compliance and efficiency.

Qualifications

Skills & Competencies:

• Extensive knowledge of weekly payroll processing, multi-state taxation, and compliance regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for accuracy and detail.
• Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Workday, UKG) and Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUPs, Pivot Tables).
• Strong understanding of FLSA, wage and hour laws, payroll tax laws, and regulatory reporting.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact with employees at all levels of the organization.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of payroll processing experience in a multi-state environment, with weekly payroll experience preferred.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification preferred.

Physical & Mental Demands:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer.
• High level of concentration and ability to adapt to shifting priorities or deadlines.

Working Conditions:

• Flexibility to work extended hours during payroll deadlines, quarter-end, and year-end reporting.

Why Work With Us

• Supportive & Friendly Culture
• Manage national accounts for Fortune 500 companies
• Medical, Dental, Vision coverage options
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
• Company paid Life Insurance
• 401k with Employer Contribution
• Company paid Short/Long Term Disability
• Generous Paid Time Off program + Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Career Mapping
• Additional perks including Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Program, Identity Theft Protection, Critical Illness Plans, Commuter Benefits and various employee discount offerings from our Vendors

Pay Range

$70,000- $85,000 annually - Pay range listed reflects the potential pay for this role. The pay will depend on various factors, such as responsibilities of the position, job duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills. Not all positions posted will have a pay range listed.

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