Position Overview:
We are excited to announce an internal opening for a Payroll Specialist role at either the Payroll Specialist II or Senior Payroll Specialist level. The level of hire will be determined based on the selected candidate’s experience, qualifications, and demonstrated expertise in payroll operations.
Both positions are exempt-level roles that serve as key contributors to the payroll function and require attention to detail, independent judgment, and strong collaboration with HR, Finance, and leadership teams. This is an excellent opportunity for internal growth and career development within the payroll function.
Payroll Specialist II (Intermediate / Analytical Level)
Position Summary:
The Payroll Specialist II is responsible for leading full-cycle payroll processing and maintaining payroll data integrity across HRIS and payroll systems. This position applies intermediate-level knowledge of payroll laws, regulations, and compliance practices to resolve complex payroll issues.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead biweekly payroll processing; audit payroll reports to ensure accuracy of pay, deductions, and taxes.
- Research and resolve complex payroll matters including retroactive pay, leaves of absence, garnishments, and tax discrepancies.
- Perform payroll account reconciliations and support Finance with reporting and audits.
- Assist with benefit and retirement plan integrations into payroll processing.
- Maintain compliance with federal, state, and organizational wage and hour regulations.
- Support payroll system updates and process improvements as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High School diploma required; Associate’s degree in Accounting, Business, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
- 3–5 years of full-cycle payroll experience.
- Proficiency in Excel and ADP Workforce Now (or similar system).
- Knowledge of payroll tax, garnishments, benefit deductions, and compliance requirements.
- Ability to exercise independent judgment and handle sensitive data confidentially.
- FPC or CPP certification or progress toward certification preferred, or willing to obtain within first 12 months of employment.
Senior Payroll Specialist (Advanced Level)
Position Summary:
The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for leading payroll operations with strategic oversight. This role serves as the in-house subject matter expert on payroll compliance, reporting, year-end processes, and continuous process improvement efforts. The position collaborates with HR, Finance, and Legal to ensure payroll operations remain compliant, efficient, and audit-ready.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage all aspects of payroll operations, ensuring accurate and timely processing for each pay cycle.
- Serve as subject matter expert on payroll compliance, including FLSA, multi-state taxation, and year-end processes (W-2s, 941 filings, etc.).
- Lead payroll audits, reconciliations, and process improvement initiatives.
- Partner with HR, Finance, and Legal on payroll controls, funding, and policy alignment.
- Provide payroll data and reporting for leadership and external audit purposes.
- Mentor and support development of payroll team members and ensure business continuity readiness.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High School diploma required; Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred.
- 5–8 years of progressive payroll experience, with demonstrated leadership in payroll operations, compliance, or audit.
- Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) strongly preferred or FPC, or willing to obtain within first 12 months of employment.
- Extensive knowledge of payroll strategy, compliance, audit preparation, and nonprofit payroll operations.
- Proficiency in ADP Workforce Now (or similar system) and advanced Excel skills.
Internal Posting Notes:
We encourage internal applicants to consider applying for this opportunity as part of their career development. Interested employees must meet the minimum qualifications for consideration. Final placement into Payroll Specialist II or Senior Payroll Specialist will be based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.