Payroll Specialist - Human Resources

The HR Specialist is a member of the HR Operations Team and is responsible for processing and timely delivery of assigned payrolls. This position uses an understanding of the in-house payroll system (SAP) to accurately pay employees in compliance with federal and state laws. The incumbent helps to ensure proper tax treatment, accounting, and disposition of withholdings such as taxes, deductions for benefits, garnishments, retirement contributions, etc

 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES (To perform within this position successfully, the incumbent must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other duties may be assigned.)

• Accurately process bi-weekly payroll. Maintain a working knowledge of payroll processes, ensuring all regulatory and legislative compliance procedures are applied correctly, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
• Handle complex payroll calculations including hours worked, paid leave, holidays, garnishments, levies, retroactive payments and deductions.
• Utilize in-house payroll system (SAP) to maintain employee records and guarantee data integrity, such as wages and salaries, tax withholding certificates, direct deposit bank information.
• Apply intermediate MS Excel skills to perform internal audits and reports for compliance and accuracy.
• Prepares required and assigned reports by compiling, researching, and analyzing data.
• Perform accounting reports and reconciliations of payroll related general ledger accounts. Post journal entries in a timely manner.
• Ensures compliance of records and retention best practices and maintains employee personnel files.
• Serves as internal auditor and record keeper for corporate 401(k) retirement plan. Verifies compliance with IRS and ERISA regulations. Provides data to Third Party Administrator during required annual audits and inquiries.
• Participate in new hire orientation providing an overview of HR policies and processes.
• Maintain confidential information by adhering to legal and ethical standards.
• Contributes to the overall success of the organization by collaborating with other departments as needed, maintaining a professional demeanor and appropriate levels of confidentiality, and providing excellent customer service.
• All other duties as assigned.

AUTHORITY & SCOPE

This role operates within defined corporate policies and procedures and exercises judgment appropriate to its level of responsibility. The position may influence decisions related to functional operations, processes, or recommendations and escalate matters as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities: No

Qualifications (The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required and preferred for this position.)

Required Education & Experience:

• 3+ years of experience in complex payroll processing.
• 3+ years of experience using Payroll Processing Software (ADP, UKG, Paylocity, etc.)
• Knowledge of State and Federal Payroll Laws and deadline requirements.
• Excellent communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal management skills.

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Ability to process payroll via standard operating systems.
• Ability to manage one’s time and projects to ensure completion of payroll and reporting requirements.
• Intermediate Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook) experience.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, accounting, business management or related field.
• Knowledge of SAP or HRIS and Payroll Processing Software (ADP, UKG, Paylocity, etc.)

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:  

• SHRM-CP or PRH
• Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

Working Conditions:

Office setting, repetitive standing, walking within and between buildings.