Payroll Tax Specialist II

Description
Position Summary

The Payroll Tax Specialist II is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll tax processing, reporting, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role requires a strong focus on accuracy and problem-solving, as it involves tax reconciliations, resolving discrepancies, processing tax liabilities, and addressing tax notices. The position also supports quarterly and year-end tax filings while identifying opportunities for process improvements.

Success in this role requires a high level of precision, the ability to analyze complex payroll tax data, and a strategic mindset to anticipate potential issues before they arise. The ideal candidate has experience with multi-state payroll tax filings, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Strong analytical skills, proactive problem-solving, and effective communication are essential for ensuring compliance and delivering exceptional service.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

Set up new clients in the tax software, ensuring accurate tax code setup, bank account setup, tax rates, EINs, historical data imports, and obtaining tax POAs, TPA access, and EFTPS enrollment.
Work with agencies to establish TPA accounts and complete required testing.
Process tax amendments and reconcile discrepancies.
Assist the Payroll Tax Lead in managing payroll tax cash care and bank reconciliations, including processing refunds, collections, and NSF transactions.
Process tax payments via checks, debits, and credits, including EFTPS transactions and tax coupon submissions.
Assist the Payroll Tax Lead in resolving issues with interim quarter filings on a weekly basis.
Process quarter and year-end tax filings, including necessary preparations before filing periods.
Manage data exchanges with tax agencies.
Verify and maintain the accuracy of tax program setups.
Collaborate with internal departments to ensure accurate tax filings and payroll adjustments.
Manage tickets by conducting research, communicating with clients, coordinating with agencies, and handling abatements.
Maintain and update records for applied-for EINs by gathering necessary details from team members and clients.
Assist with cross-departmental tax-related tasks, including updating spreadsheets and shared templates.
Maintain a high level of client retention by providing exceptional and reliable service.
Stay up to date on payroll tax laws and coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies on behalf of clients.
Maintain all client files in compliance with internal procedures and organizational standards.
Foster and maintain positive relationships with clients and coworkers to ensure high-quality interactions and a strong service reputation.
Develop and maintain internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and efficiency in processes.
Continuously review tax platform accuracy, identifying and resolving issues proactively.
Research and resolve payroll tax-related questions, concerns, and account discrepancies in a timely and client-friendly manner.
Conduct monthly tax account reconciliations and audit payroll tax liabilities to ensure consistency and compliance.
Actively collaborate and share knowledge with coworkers to enhance team efficiency.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
4+ years of experience in payroll tax, accounting, or similar work environment or which 2+ years of experience with Master Tax mandatory.
Preferred experience with UKG
2+ years of experience with quarter-end and year-end payroll tax filings.
Strong organization, oral, and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects and deadlines.
Strong computer aptitude, including proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
Ability to analyze data with strong attention to detail.
Proven ability in customer service and problem resolution with a strong customer service orientation.
Ability to perform thorough work in a fast-paced environment.
Demonstrated ability to think independently and proactively identify and resolve payroll tax issues