Payroll Specialist

Who you are

• 3–5+ years of payroll processing experience
• Working knowledge of payroll practices, compliance requirements, and multi-state payroll processing
• Experience with payroll systems such as ADP (Workforce Now or Lyric) and time & attendance systems
• Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, data validation) for reconciliation and auditing
• Working knowledge of FLSA and IRS payroll tax regulations
• Familiarity with payroll reporting and account reconciliations
• Proficiency in Google Workspace or similar tools
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage deadlines
• Effective communication and problem-solving skills
• Experience in a fast-paced or high-growth environment is a plus
• Exposure to collective bargaining agreements is preferred
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business (or equivalent experience)
• FPC/CPP designation is a plus

What the job involves

• As a Payroll Specialist, you will support the day-to-day payroll operations to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing for employees
• This role focuses on payroll execution, compliance, reconciliation, and reporting while partnering with internal teams to maintain data integrity and resolve payroll-related inquiries
• This position reports to the Sr Manager of Payroll and does not include supervisory responsibilities
• Process payroll for 1000 + hourly and salaried employees, including adjustments, Bonus, Reimbursement, corrections, retroactive pay and off cycle / manual checks
• Administer union payroll per CBA terms, including shift differentials, overtime, and union dues deductions
• Review payroll data for accuracy, ensuring proper calculations of wages, taxes, and deductions
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including tax filings and year-end activities (e.g., W-2s)
• Perform regular payroll audits to identify discrepancies and ensure accuracy
• Assist in preparing payroll reports and supporting documentation as needed
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries and provide timely resolution
• Reconcile payroll registers to each pay period, Validate hours; resolve variances promptly
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, and other teams to ensure accurate employee data and payroll processing
• Perform pre and post-payroll audits each cycle to catch errors before disbursement
• Support internal/external audit engagements and SOX compliance; maintain payroll internal controls documentation
• Identify process gaps and recommend improvements to strengthen accuracy and efficiency
• Conduct periodic internal audits for compliance with FLSA, state wage laws, and CBA provisions

Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision benefits, including paid membership to One Medical
• Unlimited vacation policy
• Free daily catered lunches + fully stocked kitchen at HQ
• Ability to have a huge impact at an early-stage, mission-driven startup
• Fun office culture and a team you would be proud to work with