Payroll Specialist

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