Payroll Specialist

About the role

The Payroll Specialist administers and processes biweekly payrolls for all employees, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timely payment. The role also covers ACA compliance reporting, 401(k) and HSA/FSA administration, payroll bank reconciliations and employee benefit arrears, while supporting HR on audits and compliance initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Review payroll data for accuracy, including hours worked, overtime, pay rate changes, taxes, garnishments, child support orders, PTO usage and exempt employee time off.
• Audit payroll transactions and resolve discrepancies before processing and approval.
• Maintain payroll records in line with company policy and federal, state and local regulations.
• Handle ACA compliance reporting, including monthly audits, eligibility change tracking and annual reporting.
• Prepare, reconcile and submit biweekly 401(k) contribution reports and funding information.
• Process HSA and FSA file uploads and coordinate with third-party administrators.
• Monitor payroll changes received through designated channels and perform monthly payroll bank reconciliations.
• Post miscellaneous payroll deposits and payments, track benefit arrears and prepare monthly receivables reports for outstanding benefit premiums.
• Serve as the main point of contact for employee payroll inquiries and support HR on audits, reporting and special projects.
• Collaborate with department managers, vendors and third-party administrators; assist with AP and AR transactions, collections and payments.

Required profile

• At least five years of payroll and benefits administration experience; accounting background preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.
• Experience with Paylocity or a similar payroll and HRIS system.
• Ability to work independently, handle confidential information and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Required skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and PowerPoint.
• Analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.