Senior Payroll Specialist

What Impact You'll Have

We are seeking a highly skilled, detail-oriented, and resourcefully independent Senior Payroll Specialist to support and execute end-to-end payroll operations in a fast-paced, multi-entity environment. This role requires a true self-starter who takes complete ownership of their desk, operates independently, maintains strict compliance, and proactively drives process improvements as the organization scales. The ideal candidate brings strong multi-state payroll experience within a government contracting (GovCon) environment and is equally comfortable managing day-to-day tactical execution and project-based initiatives, including direct administration of the timekeeping function. This position is primarily remote; however, candidates must reside within the DMV area to support in-person events, team meetings, and business needs, as required, at or near our McLean, VA headquarters.

What You'll be Owning

• Independently execute and own end-to-end processing for multiple entities on varying schedules, ensuring complete accuracy from initial data preparation through final transmission.
• Review, validate, and balance payroll to labor, ensuring seamless alignment between timekeeping and payroll systems.
• Manually research, troubleshoot, and resolve system and workbook variances (such as 401k or benefit discrepancies) directly within the platform prior to final payroll submission.
• Maintain strict compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including complex multi-state requirements.
• Audit payroll data rigorously for accuracy, including earnings, deductions, taxes, and employee master data changes.
• Partner with timekeeping systems (e.g., Unanet) to ensure proper labor distribution, posting, and reporting.
• Serve as the primary Timesheet Administrator, including:
• Identify and resolve processing bottlenecks proactively, resourcefully, and efficiently.
• Execute payroll-related reporting and support internal/external audit requests.
• Assist with system integrations and implementations, including data validation, parallel testing, and payroll testing cycles.
• Support continuous process improvements, documenting payroll procedures and controls to streamline operations.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with HR, Finance, and HRIS teams while maintaining clear, uncompromised ownership of payroll processes.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with employees and leadership regarding payroll and timekeeping matters.

What You Must Have

• US Citizenship is required.
• 5+ years of hands-on payroll experience, including complex multi-state payroll processing.
• Experience in a government contracting (GovCon) environment is strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of payroll laws, multi-state tax regulations, and labor compliance requirements.
• Experience managing or supporting timekeeping systems and strict compliance processes.
• Recent, hands-on proficiency with ADP Workforce Now is required.
• GovCon timekeeping systems (ie. Unanet) is required.
• Proven ability to manage payroll cycles independently with minimal supervision; a track record of taking initiative rather than waiting for instruction.
• Exceptional level of accuracy and a 10/10 attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to quickly absorb new organizational workflows, retain training, and maintain personal documentation/SOPs to execute tasks without repetitive direction.
• Ability to manage multiple competing priorities and meet rigid deadlines within a structured payroll calendar.

What Would be Nice to Have

• Self-starter with the ability to take total ownership, troubleshoot independently, and drive results.
• Resourceful thinker who will research system capabilities and resolve issues without requiring constant step-by-step direction.
• Process-oriented with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Comfortable working in a growing, evolving acquisition environment.
• Strong communication skills—both written and verbal—with the ability to present information clearly and professionally.
• Unanet timekeeping system is highly preferred.