Senior Payroll Specialist

DIMENSIONS/SCOPE OF POSITION: 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: No

QUALIFICATIONS:

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.