Payroll Analyst- Hybrid

Grand Canyon Education•Phoenix, AZ

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Grand Canyon Education’s Payroll Department is seeking a full‑time Payroll Analyst to join our team. This role is responsible for analyzing, auditing, and reconciling payroll‑related data, with a strong emphasis on multi‑state taxation. The Payroll Analyst ensures the accuracy and integrity of payroll information, supports quarterly and year‑end processes, and assists with various payroll projects assigned by management. This position is based in Phoenix, AZ and currently operates in a hybrid schedule, requiring one in‑office day per week. Occasional in‑person attendance may be required for department meetings or trainings.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; a combination of education and relevant experience may be considered with hiring manager approval.
Minimum 5 years of hands‑on payroll processing experience and 2 years of experience with multi-state taxation
Extensive knowledge of payroll practices, methods, and programs, including accounting and legal requirements for payroll reporting and taxation.
Strong analytical skills and exceptional attention to detail.
Proficiency in Excel, including v‑lookups and pivot tables.
Ability to pass a pre‑employment background investigation.

Nice To Haves

ADP payroll software experience.
ADP EV6 and Workday experience a plus.
Demonstrated experience with multi‑state payroll and taxation.
FPC or CPP certification preferred, though not required.

Responsibilities

Analyze, audit, and reconcile complex payroll processing transactions; advise payroll staff on appropriate accounting treatment.
Perform pre‑ and post‑payroll audits to ensure accuracy of payroll data.
Reconcile payroll‑related general ledger accounts monthly and collaborate with Payroll, GL, HR, and other internal stakeholders to resolve discrepancies.
Research and set up local taxes in ADP for employees in states with local taxation requirements.
Monitor work location changes, identify discrepancies, and coordinate with HR/Management; process state tax adjustments as needed.
Ensure compliance with federal and state payroll and tax regulations.
Manage taxable tuition benefits and taxable relocation expense processing.
Prepare and distribute payroll reports for management and regulatory needs; support internal and external audits by providing required documentation.
Stay current on payroll, taxation, and general accounting rules, regulations, and policies.
Serve as backup for time and attendance interface files and payroll submission procedures.
Partner with HR, and other departments on system updates and policy/procedure changes.
Assist with quarterly and year‑end payroll processes.
Perform other duties as assigned.