Payroll Specialist

Manage end-to-end payroll processing for salaried, hourly, and grant-funded employees.
Ensure payroll is processed accurately and on schedule in compliance with all applicable laws and organizational policies.
Review and approve payroll registers, tax filings, and wage payments prior to submission.
Maintain payroll calendars, including pay periods, deadlines, and year-end processing.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws, including wage and hour regulations.
Oversee payroll tax filings, W-2s, 1099s, and other required reporting.
Respond to payroll audits and coordinate with external auditors as needed.
Monitor payroll regulation changes and implement updates accordingly.
Maintain payroll systems and employee records while ensuring confidentiality and data accuracy.
Partner with Human Resources to ensure accurate onboarding, offboarding, and employee status changes.
Reconcile payroll accounts and collaborate with Finance on general ledger postings.
Support payroll system upgrades, testing, and process improvements.
Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries.
Resolve payroll discrepancies, adjustments, and corrections in a timely manner.
Provide guidance regarding payroll, deductions, benefits, and timekeeping policies.
Develop and maintain payroll procedures and internal controls.
Identify opportunities to improve payroll efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.
Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a related field required.
Minimum 3–5 years of payroll administration experience.
Experience in nonprofit organizations or multi-site environments preferred.
Experience managing payroll for grant-funded employees or multiple funding sources strongly preferred.
Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and wage and hour requirements.
Experience with payroll systems, preferably UKG Ready.
High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and confidentiality.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Flexibility to work additional hours during payroll processing cycles and year-end reporting.