Payroll Specialist

MSA is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist in our St Paul MN office to support accurate and timely payroll processing with our Architecture, Engineering and Construction consulting firm. This role plays a critical part in ensuring payroll accuracy, maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and supporting project-based labor reporting that drives financial performance.The Payroll Specialist works closely with Accounting, Human Resources, Project Managers, and leadership to ensure payroll data, time reporting, and labor allocations are accurate and aligned with company policies and project requirements.Who We AreAt MSA, we believe great people build great communities. As a 100% employee-owned ESOP firm, our teammates share in the success of the company while working together to deliver impactful solutions for the communities we serve. We foster a collaborative environment where curiosity, innovation, and professional growth are encouraged.Payroll ProcessingProcess and reconcile bi-weekly or semi-monthly payroll within company payroll and timekeeping systemsReview employee timesheets for completeness, proper approvals, and compliance with company policiesEnsure accurate allocation of regular, overtime, and premium pay to the correct project codesProcess employee deductions including benefits, retirement contributions, garnishments, and leviesMaintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax requirements, including multi-state taxationTimekeeping & Labor ReportingEnsure all employee timesheets are submitted and approved according to company deadlinesMonitor compliance with project-based time reporting standards to support accurate job costing and billingReview labor distribution reports to confirm hours are charged to appropriate projects and cost categoriesAssist Project Managers and Project Accountants with labor corrections and reclassificationsSupport month-end close by ensuring labor postings are accurate and reconciledCompensation & Financial ReportingTrack and calculate PTO accruals, flex time balances, and related payouts according to company policiesProcess final pay and PTO payouts for employee terminationsReconcile payroll registers to the general ledger, including wage expenses, payroll taxes, and benefit deductionsPrepare payroll-related journal entries such as PTO accruals, bonus accruals, and payroll liabilitiesAssist with year-end payroll processes including W-2 preparation and reconciliationCollaboration & Continuous ImprovementServe as a primary point of contact for employee payroll and timekeeping questionsPartner with HR to ensure accurate pay rates, benefit deductions, and accrual policies are appliedCoordinate with Accounting to ensure labor costs are recorded accurately for project reportingSupport internal and external audits by preparing payroll documentation and reportsIdentify opportunities to improve payroll and timekeeping processes while maintaining strong internal controlsEducationBachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferredEquivalent professional experience will be consideredExperience4+ years of payroll or accounting experienceExperience in an Architecture/Engineering or professional services firm strongly preferredExperience with project-based timekeeping and labor costing systems preferredSkillsStrong attention to detail and accuracyWorking knowledge of payroll regulations and tax complianceAbility to analyze payroll data and resolve discrepanciesStrong communication and collaboration skillsHigh level of integrity and discretion when handling confidential informationWork AuthorizationThis position requires authorization to work in the United States for any employer. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this role.Benefits & CompensationSalary Range: $68,877 - $110,204 depending on experience and qualifications. Candidates with significant experience may also be considered for a higher-level role with increased compensation.Why Join MSABetter Together - A collaborative work environment that promotes open doors, new ideas, and honest opinions.Multi-disciplinary Opportunities - As multi-talented people in a multi-disciplinary firm, we encourage employees to explore interests, seek new experiences, and apply their skills where they can make the greatest impact.We’ve Got Your Back - Support when you need it and independence when you don’t.Commitment to DEIB - We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work and where diverse perspectives drive innovation.Passion & Purpose - We are passionate about what we do and proud of it. Join us to share ideas, “geek out,” and think big.Communities of Practice - Our Communities of Practice bring together experts across disciplines to collaborate, share knowledge, and generate new ideas.Additional BenefitsEligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependentsPaid Time Off: Minimum of 17 days in the first yearPaid Holidays: 8 holidays annuallyPaid Parental Leave: 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parentsEmployer-Paid Insurance: Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverageEmployee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost401(k) Retirement Plan: With a generous employer match that is immediately 100% vestedShort-Term Incentive Program (STIP): Annual performance-based bonus opportunityEqual Opportunity/Affirmative Action EmployerMSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.Reasonable Accommodation StatementIf you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact we can assist you.

Created: 2026-04-06