Lead Payroll Specialist

Ulteig•Fargo, ND

4d•$32 - $44•Hybrid

About The Position

The Lead Payroll Specialist is responsible for ensuring accurate and compliant payroll processing for multi-state and international payroll operations, while providing advanced subject matter expertise across all areas of payroll. This role leads complex payroll activities, including reconciliations, audits, and cross-functional initiatives, and partners closely with Accounting, HR, and business leaders to strengthen payroll processes and controls. The Lead Payroll Specialist plays a key role in driving process improvements, supporting strategic initiatives, and mentoring team members. Due to the nature of the position, this role requires a high level of discretion and the ability to handle confidential information appropriately.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation required.
5+ years of progressive payroll experience, including ownership of complex payroll operations in multi-state and/or international environments.
Advanced expertise in payroll processing, payroll taxes, and applicable federal, state, and international regulations.
Strong understanding of multi-jurisdictional payroll practices, including exposure to international payroll models (e.g., EOR, third-party providers).
Advanced proficiency in payroll and business systems, including UKG (UltiPro), Microsoft Dynamics 365, and Microsoft Office applications (with strong emphasis on Excel).
Demonstrated ability to leverage systems and tools to drive efficiency, reporting, and process improvements.
Proven ability to lead payroll reconciliations, audits, and complex issue resolution, including root cause analysis and implementation of sustainable solutions.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and provide actionable insights.
High level of attention to detail, judgment, and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information.
Demonstrates openness to innovation by embracing and applying evolving technology and AI tools to enhance workflows, solve problems, and drive continuous improvement.
Must have authorization to work permanently in the U.S.

Responsibilities

Owns the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of end-to-end payroll operations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and applicable international regulations.
Serves as a subject matter expert in payroll processes, tax regulations, and systems; provides guidance on complex issues and influences resolution strategies.
Leads payroll reconciliations and audits, including variance identification, root cause analysis, and implementation of sustainable controls in partnership with Accounting.
Takes ownership of payroll tax filings and compliance activities, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and mitigating organizational risk.
Leads cross-functional payroll initiatives and process improvements, identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, scalability, and system effectiveness.
Anticipates and assesses the impact of system, policy, or organizational changes; proactively prepares payroll processes, controls, and team readiness.
Develops and delivers payroll reporting, insights, and analysis to support decision-making for management, employees, and external stakeholders.
Collaborates with internal teams and external partners to resolve complex payroll issues and drive continuous improvement.
Provides informal leadership through training, mentoring, and guidance to payroll team members; supports knowledge sharing and skill development.