Payroll Specialist

ChoiceOne Bank • Kent City, MI

3h

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of bi-weekly payroll for all employees. This role ensures compliance with applicable wage and hour laws, maintains payroll records with a high degree of confidentiality, and provides dependable support to employees and internal partners. The Payroll Specialist works closely with Human Resources and Finance to deliver a consistent, compliant payroll experience that supports employee trust and organizational effectiveness.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Business, Human Resources, or related field, or equivalent experience
• 3+ years of experience processing bi-weekly payroll
• Working knowledge of payroll laws, taxes, and compliance requirements
• Strong attention to detail and ability to handle highly confidential information
• Proficiency with payroll systems and Microsoft Excel

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a regulated environment such as banking or financial services
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) designation
• Experience with Paylocity
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple deadlines accurately

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll accurately and on schedule for all employees
• Review and validate timekeeping data, earnings, deductions, and payroll adjustments
• Maintain payroll records, reports, and audit documentation in accordance with retention requirements
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour regulations
• Administer payroll tax filings, garnishments, benefit deductions, and other required withholdings
• Support internal and external audits related to payroll, compensation, and timekeeping
• Serve as a knowledgeable and responsive resource for employee payroll inquiries
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies in a timely and professional manner
• Provide clear explanations regarding pay statements, deductions, and payroll processes
• Maintain accurate payroll data within the payroll system and HRIS
• Partner with HR and Finance on payroll reconciliations and reporting
• Assist with system testing, upgrades, and process improvements
• Coordinate with HR on new hires, terminations, pay changes, and leaves of absence
• Identify opportunities to strengthen payroll processes, controls, and communication
• Contribute to a service-oriented, detail-focused payroll function
• Continually review journals, articles, publications, and other material to keep abreast of new developments in various job areas.
• May perform specialized or confidential duties, including researching data and preparing reports related to officer’s assignments.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned.
• Be familiar with and comply with the provisions of the Bank Secrecy Act and USA PATRIOT Act as they relate to the functions of this position. Complete all required reports related to those acts and reports any observed violations or potential violations of those acts to a supervisor or other appropriate bank officer.
• Be familiar with and comply with all federal and state banking regulations as applicable.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree