Payroll Specialist

Sterling Search Partners is helping a Birmingham client with its search for a Payroll and Leave Specialist. The Payroll and Leave Administration Specialist is responsible for managing and processing payroll for more than 500 employees across multiple departments or locations. This role ensures accurate and timely payroll execution, compliance with federal and state regulations, and effective administration of all leave programs (FMLA, ADA, PTO, and other leaves of absence). The position requires strong attention to detail, systems expertise, and a collaborative approach with HR, finance, and management teams.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Management

• Oversee end-to-end payroll processing for 500+ employees (hourly, salaried, and variable pay groups).
• Ensure accurate calculation of wages, bonuses, deductions, and benefits contributions.
• Reconcile payroll accounts and prepare reports for accounting and auditing purposes.
• Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws.
• Manage payroll interfaces with HRIS, timekeeping, and accounting systems.
• Serve as primary liaison with payroll vendor or internal payroll system (e.g., ADP, UKG, Paycom, Workday).
• Audit timecards, pay adjustments, and payroll data to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Leave Administration

• Oversee company-wide leave programs, including FMLA, state leave laws, ADA accommodations, and PTO accruals.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable leave laws and company policies.
• Coordinate employee leave documentation, tracking, and return-to-work processes.
• Partner with HR and managers to provide guidance on leave eligibility, scheduling, and pay impacts.
• Maintain accurate records of all leaves in HRIS and ensure payroll alignment with time off.

Compliance and Reporting

• Stay current with wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, and leave legislation.
• Manage audits and respond to inquiries from regulatory agencies.
• Generate and analyze payroll and leave reports for leadership.
• Support year-end processes, including W-2 preparation and reconciliations.

Leadership and Collaboration .

• Work closely with HR, Finance, and Benefits teams to streamline data and processes.
• Identify and implement process improvements for accuracy, efficiency, and employee experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of progressive payroll experience; experience managing payroll for 500+ employees preferred.
• Strong knowledge of FMLA, ADA, and state leave laws.
• Proficiency with payroll/HRIS systems (e.g., ADP, UKG, Paycom, Workday).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• High level of integrity and confidentiality.
• CPP preferred.