Job Description
We are seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join our finance team in New York City. This role ensures accurate and timely processing of multi-state payroll, compliance with federal and state regulations, and reconciliation of payroll data. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with payroll systems, strong analytical skills, and a proactive mindset.
As a Payroll Specialist, you will partner with HR, Accounting, and Benefits to maintain data integrity, deliver accurate payroll reports, and support audits. This is a hands-on role with opportunities to drive efficiency improvements across the payroll lifecycle.
Responsibilities
- Process accurate payroll for multi-state employees on a bi-weekly and monthly cycle, ensuring on-time delivery.
- Maintain employee records, update deductions, benefits, time and attendance data, and manage new hires and terminations.
- Perform payroll reconciliations, resolve discrepancies, respond to inquiries, and provide excellent customer service to employees.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations; manage tax filings, forms, and year-end processes (W-2s).
- Prepare payroll reports for management, HR, and Finance; support internal audits and SOX controls as required.
- Collaborate with HR, Benefits, and Accounting to administer benefits plans, retirement contributions, and other compensation programs.
- Support system enhancements by identifying automation opportunities and integrating with HRIS/ERP systems.
Qualifications
- 3+ years of multi-state payroll experience in a corporate environment.
- Solid knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, wage-and-hour rules, and year-end processes (W-2s).
- Experience with HRIS/Payroll systems such as Workday, ADP, Paychex, or UKG UltiPro.
- Strong data accuracy, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities; ability to handle confidential information.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills; comfortable working with HR and Finance teams.
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; payroll certification (CPP or FPC) preferred.
- Proactive, process-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Hybrid/onsite in NYC preferred; occasional travel may be required.