Payroll Specialist

Zumiez Inc•Lynnwood, WA

8d•$60,000 - $70,000

About The Position

This position directly contributes to the success of the organization by ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for 9,000+ employees. This role supports the day-to-day execution of bi-weekly, multi-state payroll operations in a high-volume environment. The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing payroll transactions, performing reconciliations, supporting payroll tax and garnishment administration, and assisting with payroll-related accounting activities. This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to troubleshoot discrepancies, and a working knowledge of payroll laws and compliance requirements.

Requirements

1–3 years of experience in payroll processing, multi-state payroll, or related area
Basic understanding of payroll laws and regulations (including FLSA and payroll tax fundamentals)
Experience supporting payroll reconciliations and resolving discrepancies
Intermediate Excel skills
High School Diploma or equivalent
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
Ability to identify, investigate, and resolve payroll discrepancies
Strong understanding of confidentiality and data sensitivity
Effective communication and customer service skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines
Strong organizational and time management skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis preferred)
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team

Nice To Haves

Experience with payroll tax processing, research, or notice resolution
Experience administering wage garnishments
Experience preparing or supporting payroll journal entries
Experience with payroll systems (e.g., UKG, Ceridian/Dayforce, ADP, Workday, or similar)
Experience with full cycle payroll (end to end processing)

Responsibilities

Process payroll data including regular wages, bonuses, commissions, terminations, and off-cycle payments
Administer payroll adjustments including retroactive pay, corrections, and stop payments
Perform payroll reconciliations, including review of payroll registers and investigation of discrepancies
Prepare and support payroll-related journal entries and assist with general ledger tie-outs
Assist with payroll tax activities including research, adjustments, and resolution of tax discrepancies or notices
Administer wage garnishments including setup, calculation, prioritization, and coordination with agencies
Validate payroll files and reports to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance
Upload, audit, and transmit payroll files to third-party vendors and service providers
Support pay card processing, funding, and employee setup
Respond to employee inquiries related to payroll, deductions, taxes, and timekeeping
Coordinate with internal teams (HR, Accounting, Benefits) to ensure accurate payroll inputs
Maintain and update payroll process documentation and procedures
Support quarter-end and year-end payroll activities as needed
Identify process improvement opportunities and support implementation efforts
Manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
Perform other duties as assigned