Payroll Associate II

Payroll Associate II is responsible for accurate and timely payroll processing across multiple subsidiaries within Reliance Inc. This role administers pay, maintains payroll and time/leave records, and ensures compliance with multi-state payroll regulations.

Responsibilities include processing weekly, bi-weekly, and off-cycle payrolls; updating payroll data such as time, commissions, bonuses, and manual checks; and supporting payroll operations through audits, documentation, and special projects. The position also helps guide the payroll team by assisting with process improvements and best practices under the direction of the Payroll Manager.

• Processes weekly, bi-weekly and/or off-cycle payrolls for multiple subsidiaries within the “Family of Companies” at Reliance Inc.
• Update payroll data and process time and labor, commissions, incentives, bonuses, onsite checks, and any other earnings as requested.
• Process and record adjustments to pay related to payroll elections, benefits, or retroactive increases.
• Organize and prioritize daily workload to ensure tasks are completed accurately and in a timely manner.
• Monitor case management for employees, managers’ and local point of contacts payroll inquiries regularly to ensure service level agreements and subsidiary satisfaction are met.
• Manage the timely resolution of subsidiary issues including handling escalations, perform and document Root Cause Analysis and implement remedial procedures to close gaps identified.
• Assist with analyzing reports as necessary for use by the subsidiaries and colleagues.
• Attend regularly scheduled staff meetings and provide coverage/assist other payroll staff as needed.
• Work on special projects assigned by management.
• Create and maintain required payroll Standard Operating Procedures and/or other documentation.
• Provide training, information and assistance to new payroll processors relating to policies/procedures as well as payroll processing.
• Assist with preparing documentation for payroll inquiries, audits, or other reviews, as needed.
• Responsible for adhering to safety processes and protocols.

SUPPLEMENTAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• All other duties and responsibilities assigned by management.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Payroll Processing Expertise

Demonstrates advanced knowledge of full-cycle payroll processing, including multi-state payroll, off-cycle runs, commissions, bonuses, and manual checks with a high degree of accuracy.

Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge

Applies in-depth understanding of federal, state, and local tax laws, wage and hour regulations, and garnishment rules to ensure payroll compliance and minimize risk.

Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills

Identifies discrepancies, performs root cause analysis, and resolves complex payroll issues using strong analytical thinking and sound judgment.

Attention to Detail

Maintains exceptional accuracy when processing payroll data, auditing results, and handling sensitive employee information.

Time Management & Prioritization

Effectively manages multiple payroll cycles, deadlines, and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment while ensuring timely completion of tasks.

Systems & Technical Proficiency

Utilizes payroll systems (e.g., Dayforce, Service Now) and Microsoft Excel to efficiently process payroll, analyze data, and generate reports.

• 5-7 years of relevant payroll experience required.
• High School diploma/GED required, associate’s degree or higher (or equivalent experience) preferred.
• 5+ years full service multi-state payroll experience is strongly preferred, Ceridian Dayforce experience preferred.
• Experience in a shared service center environment preferred.
• Expert knowledge of federal, state and local tax withholding requirements and garnishment procedures required.
• Experience with multi-state payroll preferred.
• Union payroll knowledge strongly desired.
• Bi-lingual desired but not required.
• Strong arithmetic, analytical, and problem-solving skills required.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment required.
• Ability to exercise discretion when handling sensitive/confidential pay information required.
• Excellent oral and written communication and customer service skills required.
• Ability to make sound decisions based on a combination of factors including analysis, knowledge and experience, and judgment required.
• Ability to initiate and maintain cooperative relationships with co-workers as well as internal/external customers required.
• Strong computer proficiency and working knowledge of Microsoft applications (Excel, Word, Outlook) required.