Payroll Specialist

Hunting•Houston, TX

12h•Onsite

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and efficient processing of bi-weekly and semi-monthly payrolls across multiple states and Canada. This role involves preparing information for various audits, including Workers’ Comp, Accounting, and 401(k) program annual audits, as well as assisting the Finance department with internal and external audits. Key responsibilities also include processing new benefit enrollments and updates, preparing monthly benefit invoices, providing FMLA, STD, and LTD documentation, initiating life claims, and onboarding new hires into the HRIS. The specialist will handle year-end tasks such as W-2, T4, tax reconciliations, and ACA filings, process 401(k) contributions, and accurately update payroll records for changes in exemptions, insurance, and deductions. Maintaining direct deposit and electronic transfers, ensuring payroll balances, conducting reconciliation activities, and determining payroll liabilities by calculating federal and state taxes are also part of the role. The position requires maintaining payroll guidelines by creating and updating policies and procedures, preparing journal entry recommendations, and performing other assigned duties to support the company's needs.

Requirements

Associate degree, or five (5) or more years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience required.
3 to 5 years of direct payroll experience and payroll tax reporting.
Experience with an HRIS/Payroll system is required.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret financial reports and legal documents.
Ability to respond to common inquiries from vendors, regulatory agencies, or members of management.
Ability to work with the fundamentals of Accounting and General Business Acumen.
Ability to shift priorities in an active business environment while adhering to required timelines.
Ability to interact harmoniously with all staff members.
Strong, positive customer service approach.
Strong attention to detailed accuracy and problem-solving skills.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and Payroll Software.
Employee must be able to meet requirements for drug screen, background check, physical, and medical ability to perform the essential duties of the position.
Regular onsite attendance during prescribed work hours and days, to include overtime.
Employee must be a U.S. citizen or able to independently obtain legal work authorization to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

BS degree (or equivalent) in accounting.
CPP designation.
Experience with the UKG platform.

Responsibilities

Accurately and efficiently process bi-weekly and semi-monthly payrolls across multiple states and Canada.
Prepare required information for Workers’ Comp, Accounting, and 401(k) program annual audits.
Assist the Finance department with both Internal and External audits.
Process new benefit enrollments and updates for qualifying life changes using the Benefit Provider's websites.
Prepare and process monthly benefit invoices.
Provide FMLA, STD, and LTD documentation to employees, as needed.
Initiate Life claims and assist the family of the employee as needed.
Complete the onboarding of new hires into the dedicated HRIS.
Prepare and process year-end tasks, including, but not limited to, audits, W-2, T4, tax reconciliations, and ACA filings.
Prepare and process 401(k) contributions in compliance with required timelines.
Accurately update payroll records, including changes in exemptions, insurance coverage, savings deductions, job titles, and transfers.
Set up and maintenance of direct deposit and electronic transfers to bank accounts.
Will ensure payroll balances and conduct reconciliation activities as needed.
Determine payroll liabilities by calculating federal and state income and social security taxes, and the employer’s social security, unemployment, and workers' compensation payments.
Maintain payroll guidelines by creating and updating policies and procedures to ensure efficient and accurate payroll practices.
Prepare and make recommendations for journal entries.
Other tasks, duties, and responsibilities as assigned by the Human Resource Director, in support of the company's needs.