Payroll Specialist

JOB TITLE: Payroll Specialist

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: Reports to the Payroll Manager

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt – Full Time

DEPARTMENT: Accounting

LOCATION: Lynnwood Home Office

POSITION SUMMARY: KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Payroll Specialist

This position directly contributes to the success of the organization by ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for 9,000+ employees. This role supports the day-to-day execution of bi-weekly, multi-state payroll operations in a high-volume environment.

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing payroll transactions, performing reconciliations, supporting payroll tax and garnishment administration, and assisting with payroll-related accounting activities. This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to troubleshoot discrepancies, and a working knowledge of payroll laws and compliance requirements.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Process payroll data including regular wages, bonuses, commissions, terminations, and off-cycle payments
• Administer payroll adjustments including retroactive pay, corrections, and stop payments
• Perform payroll reconciliations, including review of payroll registers and investigation of discrepancies
• Prepare and support payroll-related journal entries and assist with general ledger tie-outs
• Assist with payroll tax activities including research, adjustments, and resolution of tax discrepancies or notices
• Administer wage garnishments including setup, calculation, prioritization, and coordination with agencies
• Validate payroll files and reports to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance
• Upload, audit, and transmit payroll files to third-party vendors and service providers
• Support pay card processing, funding, and employee setup
• Respond to employee inquiries related to payroll, deductions, taxes, and timekeeping
• Coordinate with internal teams (HR, Accounting, Benefits) to ensure accurate payroll inputs
• Maintain and update payroll process documentation and procedures
• Support quarter-end and year-end payroll activities as needed
• Identify process improvement opportunities and support implementation efforts
• Manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• Perform other duties as assigned

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Ability to identify, investigate, and resolve payroll discrepancies
• Strong understanding of confidentiality and data sensitivity
• Effective communication and customer service skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis preferred)
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Required:

• 1–3 years of experience in payroll processing, multi-state payroll, or related area
• Basic understanding of payroll laws and regulations (including FLSA and payroll tax fundamentals)
• Experience supporting payroll reconciliations and resolving discrepancies
• Intermediate Excel skills
• High School Diploma or equivalent

Preferred:

• Experience with payroll tax processing, research, or notice resolution
• Experience administering wage garnishments
• Experience preparing or supporting payroll journal entries
• Experience with payroll systems (e.g., UKG, Ceridian/Dayforce, ADP, Workday, or similar)
• Experience with full cycle payroll (end to end processing)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position involves primarily desk-based work using a computer in an office or remote environment. Extended periods of sitting and computer use are typical. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

BENEFITS

• Salary Range: $60,000 – $70,000 annually
• Long Term Incentive eligible
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance following an initial waiting period
• 401(k) after meeting eligibility requirements
• Paid Parental Leave
• Life Insurance
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Sick Leave
• Stock Purchase Program
• Employee Discount on Zumiez products