Payroll Specialist

Job Description

Job Summary

Responsible for processing the company’s payroll operations accurately and efficiently. The ideal candidate must have a strong understanding of general payroll processes and statutory requirements. Candidate must have strong ethical standards and a commitment to professionalism and confidentiality due to the nature of the position.

Essential Job Functions and Competencies

Oversee and manage the entire payroll process, including but not limited to:

Processing and validating employee timesheets and hours worked

Calculating and verifying employee wages, salaries, and bonus payments

Ensuring accurate deductions for taxes, benefits, and other payroll-related items

Generating and distributing payroll reports

Addressing payroll-related inquiries from employees in a timely and professional manner

Collaborate closely with Human Resources to ensure accurate and up-to-date employee information, including new hires, terminations, and changes in employment status, are reflected in the payroll system.

Review and reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies, statutory regulations, and generally accepted accounting principles.

Serve as a subject matter expert on payroll matters, staying updated on relevant industry trends, legislative changes, and best practices, and sharing this knowledge with the accounting team.

Assist in preparing and filing tax-related forms and reports, such as quarterly and annual payroll tax returns.

Collaborate with internal and external auditors during payroll-related audits, providing requested documentation and reconciliations.

Produces ad hoc reports as needed by management

Confidence extracting data and working within Microsoft Excel

Posts payroll-related inventory adjustments

Creates month end G/L clearing entries

Monitors for reasonableness and accuracy

Assists with monthly close

Maintains historical records

Protects sensitive information

Maintains financial security

Maintains safe and clean working environment

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Experienced in payroll administration, preferably in a role processing a similar number of employees (100+)

Strong technical skills, including proficiency in payroll software or systems

Proficiency in MS Excel, including the ability to manage large data sets, manipulate formulas, and create reports

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to reconcile and resolve discrepancies efficiently

Comprehensive knowledge of payroll rules, regulations, and statutory requirements (e.g., taxes, deductions, benefits), with a strong attention to detail

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to communicate complex payroll matters in a clear and concise manner

Proven ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and integrity

Highly organized, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively

Education and Experience

A high school diploma is required

An Associate or B.S. degree in Accounting or equivalent experience is preferred

3+ years of experience

Certified Payroll Specialist or Certified Payroll Professional, a plus