Senior Payroll Specialist

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Payroll Specialist to play a key role in the execution and continuous improvement of payroll operations in a multi-state environment. This role supports and executes complex payroll activities, ensures compliance with applicable wage and tax regulations, and maintains accurate, audit-ready payroll records. 

The Senior Payroll Specialist acts as a trusted partner to the Senior Payroll Manager and internal payroll team members, serving as a primary point of contact for employee payroll inquiries, and contributes to process enhancements, issue resolution, and payroll-related initiatives. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong technical payroll expertise, sound judgement, adaptability, and professionalism in a fast-paced, evolving environment. 

What you’ll do 

Payroll Processing & Operations 

• Process accurate and timely multi-state payroll using ADP Workforce Now 
• Prepare, import, and audit payroll files; maintain payroll checklists, approvals, and process-related documentation 
• Review payroll registers, retroactive pay, leave-related pay, bonuses, commissions, off-cycle payments, and other complex payroll items 
• Process final paychecks for employees in immediate pay states, coordinating with HR and managers to obtain required information 
• Monitor payroll and HR reports to proactively identify data issues, terminations, and required adjustments 

Employee Support & Issue Resolution 

• Collaborate within the payroll team to monitor and respond to employee payroll inquiries related to pay, taxes, deductions, and garnishments 
• Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies, escalating complex issues as needed 
• Provide clear, professional payroll guidance to employees and internal stakeholders 

Compliance, Reporting & Controls 

• Ensure payroll processing complies with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations, including multi-jurisdiction requirements 
• Support internal and external audits and year-end activities by preparing payroll documentation, reconciliations, and reports 
• Prepare standard and ad hoc payroll reports for cross-functional teams, and analyze data to identify discrepancies, trends, and opportunities for improved accuracy and/or efficiency 

Process Improvement & Collaboration 

• Review payroll workflows and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency, controls, and scalability 
• Maintain and update payroll documentation, standard operating procedures, and process guides 
• Partner cross-functionally with Finance, Total Rewards, Employee Experience, and Legal on payroll initiatives 
• Participate in special projects, system enhancements, and reporting initiatives 
• Serve as an active team member through cross-training, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvemen

What we’re looking for 

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field or equivalent professional experience 
• 4-6 years of progressive payroll experience in a multi-state environment 
• Hands-on experience with ADP Workforce Now required 
• FPC preferred but not required 
• Understanding of payroll accounting, taxation, and finance concepts in relation to payroll 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and experience working with payroll data and reconciliations 
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to manage confidential information 
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to meet strict deadlines 
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities 
• Proven ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across teams 
• Capacity to adapt to shifting priorities, evolving environments, and thrive under pressure