Job Description
Job Description: Payroll Specialist
Position Summary
The Payroll Specialist is responsible for end-to-end payroll processing for approximately 200 employees across three U.S. locations. This role operates in a highly manual environment and will play a critical role in establishing standardized processes, documentation, and internal controls to ensure accurate, compliant, and efficient payroll operations.
This role is a unique opportunity to help build and strengthen foundational payroll/benefits processes in a growing organization.
Key Responsibilities
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Process weekly payroll accurately and on time, including timekeeping inputs, adjustments, deductions, and taxes
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Collect and validate payroll data from multiple sources and systems
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Perform payroll audits and reconciliations, including payroll-to-GL alignment
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Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax requirements
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Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll-related employee inquiries
Process & Controls (Critical Focus Area)
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Design and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for payroll processes
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Establish and maintain a payroll control framework, including:
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Pre-and post-payroll validation checks
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Approval workflows
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Documentation standards
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Identify and mitigate risks related to manual processes and single points of failure
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Partner with Finance and HR to improve data accuracy and process flow
Qualifications
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3–5+ years of payroll processing experience (multi-state preferred)
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Strong understanding of payroll compliance and tax regulations
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Experience working in manual or evolving payroll environments preferred
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High attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills
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Ability to work independently and build structure in a developing environment
What Success Looks Like
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Payroll is processed accurately, consistently, and on time
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Documented, repeatable payroll processes are in place
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A clear controls framework reduces risk and improves audit readiness
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Reduced reliance on manual workarounds over time
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