Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is solely responsible for the accurate and timely processing of multi-state payroll for all employees, including both weekly and bi-weekly pay cycles. This role owns end-to-end payroll operations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and manages all payroll-related tax reporting and filings. The Payroll Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for payroll inquiries and works closely with HR, Finance, and external agencies to maintain payroll integrity.Key ResponsibilitiesProcess full-cycle, multi-state payroll for all employees on weekly and bi-weekly schedulesReview and validate timecard data, including overtime, shift premiums, weekend pay, holiday pay, and production-based incentives.Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, bonuses, commissions, deductions, and garnishmentsMaintain compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws across multiple jurisdictionsPrepare, review, and submit all payroll tax filings, including federal, state, and local taxesReconcile payroll reports, tax liabilities, and general ledger entriesManage year-end payroll activities, including W-2 preparation, distribution, and reconciliationAdminister payroll changes related to new hires, terminations, pay adjustments, and benefits deductionsRespond to payroll-related inquiries from employees, management, and external agenciesMaintain payroll records in accordance with record retention requirementsCoordinate audits, tax notices, and agency correspondence related to payrollSupport audits by providing payroll documentation and reports.Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, controls, and documentationRequired Skills/Abilities/EducationBachelor's degree in accounting or a related field preferred. Experience may be considered in lieu of degree.5+ years of experience processing multiple state payrolls, ideally including payrolls in California and Illinois.Experience processing payroll for hourly employees with complex pay rules.Extensive knowledge of payroll laws, wage and hour compliance, and payroll tax requirements.Proficiency with payroll and timekeeping systems, ideally UKG.Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, customer service and communication skills.

Created: 2026-05-08