ARES is an award-winning space and defense company, providing innovative, reliable, and cost-effective solutions on-time and within budget to high value-programs. Our clients include the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Missile Defense Agency, Space Force, Air Force Research Laboratory, and Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. ARES is an 100% employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This path allows us to continue to be an independently-managed company, focused on long-term success with an employee-centered culture. As owners, our employees are deeply invested in the success of our client’s mission, creating a collaborative, productive work environment where everyone strives toward a common goal.
We are looking for a detail-oriented and reliable Payroll Specialist to support payroll operations for a growing government contracting organization. This individual is responsible for processing payroll for more than 500 employees across multiple entities. under a holding company structure. Our workforce spans over 25 states, requiring strong knowledge of multi-state payroll compliance. The ideal candidate has prior technical payroll expertise, experience working in a multi-state environment, and familiarity with government contracting requirements.
This position will be a hybrid position based out of our McLean, VA headquarters, or Houston, TX office and will require in-office work two to three days per week.
Key Responsibilities
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Process our semi-monthly payroll for 550–600 employees across multiple companies/entities
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Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing, including wages, bonuses, deductions, and taxes across multiple states
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Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including multi-state and union-specific requirements
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Reconcile payroll reports, general ledger entries, and benefit deductions
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Coordinate with HR on employee data changes (new hires, terminations, promotions, multi-state transfers, etc.)
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Coordinate with management team to ensure timely and accurate completion of timecards for payroll processing
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Manage garnishments, levies, and other withholdings
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Support audits (internal and external), including DCAA audits as applicable
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Prepare payroll-related reports for leadership and finance
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Assist with year-end processing, including tax document preparation and distribution across multiple jurisdictions
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Ensure compliance with all state applications and filings
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Oversee and handle all payroll-related correspondence received at the Corporate office by mail
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Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes and ensure best practices
Qualifications
Required:
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At least 3 years of payroll processing experience in a multi-state environment
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Strong understanding of payroll laws, regulations, and compliance requirements
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Experience processing payroll for mid- to large-sized employee populations (200+ employees)
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Hands-on experience with ADP Workforce Now payroll platform
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High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
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Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
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Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., reconciliations, data analysis)
Preferred:
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Experience processing payroll in a multi-entity environment
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Cost Point Experience Preferred
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Experience in a government contracting environment
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Experience working with union employee payroll processing
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Familiarity with DCAA compliance requirements
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Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation
Key Competencies:
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Accuracy and attention to detail
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Ability to work independently
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
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Time management and ability to meet strict deadlines
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Effective communication and collaboration
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Customer service mindset when supporting employees, managers, and corporate team
ARES Benefits:
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ARES offers a competitive compensation and benefit package. Full time employees may participate in:
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Medical Insurance
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Dental Insurance
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Vision Insurance
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HSA/FSA Accounts
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Life & Disability Insurance
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Critical Illness & Accident Insurance
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ESOP
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401(k) Plan
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Paid Time Off & Holiday
ARES is an equal opportunity employer and complies with E-Verify. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law. ARES shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a).
