Senior Payroll Specialist The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for executing and overseeing accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for the organization. This role serves as a subject-matter expert for payroll operations, ensures compliance with all applicable regulations, and provides guidance to junior payroll staff while partnering closely with HR and Finance.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities:- Review and validate payroll data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, tax, and labor regulations
- Prepare and review payroll tax filings, reconciliations, and statutory reports
- Manage year-end payroll activities (e.g., W-2s, P60s, T4s, or equivalents)
- Investigate and resolve complex payroll discrepancies and employee inquiries
- Support payroll audits and internal controls documentation
- Collaborate with HR on new hires, terminations, benefits, leaves of absence, and compensation changes
- Assist with payroll system maintenance, testing, upgrades, and process improvements
- Train and mentor junior payroll staff and serve as a payroll escalation point
- Prepare payroll reports and analytics for management and Finance
- Maintain confidentiality and data security of payroll information
- Other duties as assigned
- Regular and predictable attendance
- Ability to work cooperatively with others
Supervisory Responsibilities:
NoQualifications:
Education and/or Experience: A Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business Administration is preferred.5 to 7 years of payroll experience, with demonstrated senior-level responsibility required.
In-depth knowledge of payroll regulations, taxation, and statutory compliance requirements.
Experience supporting audits and regulatory reporting.
Experience with payroll systems and HRIS platforms (e.g., ADP Workforce Now, SAP).
Language Skills:
Able to communicate effectively in the English language.
Mathematical Skills: Analytical skills ability to analyze payroll data, identify trends, and reconcile financial records.
Reasoning Ability: Proven ability to manage confidential and sensitive information. Identifies and resolves problems effectively.
Computer Skills: Must be computer-literate. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills are required.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) highly preferred.
Other Skills and Abilities:
Able to listen and respond well to questions and feedback. Strong attention to detail and accuracy, excellent organizational and time management skills, and ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work with multiple payroll cycles and company codes.
