Payroll Client Services Specialist

Emerson & Co • Kansas City, MO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Payroll Client Services Specialist to join our team and play a key role in ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely payroll services for our clients. Our payroll services include a full range of solutions—from basic payroll processing to comprehensive employee management support. This position requires strong critical thinking, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to stay organized and focused in a dynamic environment. Our ideal candidate is a problem-solver who can balance accuracy with efficiency, manage competing priorities, and maintain a professional, client-centered approach at all times.

Requirements

• Critical thinking and analytical ability to reduce escalations, assess information, identify issues, and develop effective solutions. Understands downstream impacts of payroll decisions.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in all aspects of payroll and compliance work.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage deadlines, track multiple priorities, and stay on task amid interruptions.
• Adaptability and flexibility to respond quickly to shifting client or regulatory needs.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to build professional, trusted relationships with clients and team members.
• Commitment to client service excellence demonstrating reliability, discretion, and accountability.
• Proficiency with Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel and familiarity with payroll or accounting software (experience with ADP Run, ADP Workforce Now, Payentry, or SurePayroll is a plus).
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with professionalism.
• High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field preferred.
• Proven experience in a payroll role, preferably within a multi-client or multi-state environment.
• Working knowledge of federal and state payroll tax laws and payroll compliance standards.

Responsibilities

• Client Relationship Management: Own the client relationship from onboarding through ongoing service.
• Client support and problem-solving: Act as the primary point of contact for payroll clients, addressing questions and resolving complex payroll issues with professionalism, analytical thinking, and sound judgment.
• Prioritization and workflow management: Manage multiple tasks and client requests simultaneously, adjusting priorities as deadlines and needs shift.
• Team collaboration: Work closely with internal colleagues to support process improvements and maintain consistent service excellence.
• Payroll processing and accuracy: Manage end-to-end payroll processing for multiple clients, ensuring all calculations, payments, and filings are completed accurately and on time.
• Review and verification: Configure payroll systems accurately. Analyze timekeeping and compensation data for consistency and accuracy, identifying and correcting discrepancies before payroll submission.
• Compliance management: Monitor and apply federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations to ensure all payroll activities remain compliant. Apply for state tax IDs and ensure registrations are correct.
• Data integrity and recordkeeping: Maintain organized and up-to-date employee payroll records, including new hires, terminations, and changes in benefits, pay rates, or tax status.
• Audit and reporting support: Assist with payroll-related audits and provide reporting and documentation as needed.
• Improve operational processes: Identify inefficiencies, recommend practical workflow enhancements, and implement changes that increase accuracy, efficiency, and client satisfaction.

Benefits

• Company-wide and Department-specific Bonus Plans
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a monthly employer contribution to a Health Savings Account.
• Retirement with employer match
• Student Loan Reimbursement Plan
• Paid time off, paid holidays and flex time.
• Commissions for new client referrals
• Professional development and growth opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED