Payroll Specialist

Howmet Aerospace•Laporte, IN

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist is primarily responsible for managing and executing all aspects of payroll processing for the LaPorte, Indiana location, while serving as a key member of the Human Resources team. This includes ensuring accurate and timely payroll cycles, maintaining payroll records, reconciling payroll data, and generating required reports. The role will serve as a key point of contact for payroll inquiries, providing guidance and support to employees, supervisors, and managers on payroll-related matters and system usage. In addition to payroll responsibilities, this position supports various HR administrative functions, maintaining a high level of professionalism and confidentiality. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong attention to detail, adaptability in a fast-paced environment, and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively. Experience handling sensitive information with discretion is essential.

Requirements

A minimum of a High School diploma or GED equivalency is required.
3 years’ HR Payroll Specialist experience; or comparable role.
Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items.
Strong attention to detail and ability to multi-task.
Ability to work within a team and foster teamwork.
Solid oral and written communication skills.
Fully proficient with MS Office applications.
Excel knowledge required.
Strong computer skills including proficiency in MS Office, especially Excel.
Ability to observe the highest degree of confidentiality.
Strong work ethic and ethical standards.
Results driven and accountable for actions.
Approachable – easy to talk to, puts others at ease.
Works independently yet sees others as partners and essential team members.
Effective communicator in every setting.
Able to forge strong, trusting, collaborative relationships.
Sound leadership coaching skills, investigation skills.
Project management.
Business acumen.
Solid analytical and problem-solving ability.
Demonstrates leadership potential.
Excellent influencing and negotiating skills.
Experience and demonstrated skills in creating a diverse workforce and inclusive culture.
Views safety as a way of life.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in finance or accounting.

Responsibilities

Process Payroll Cycles: Prepares weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly payroll with precision, ensuring timely reporting and compliance.
Generating Key Reports: Produces headcount, hours worked, absenteeism, and HR metrics for EHS, Finance, and business units.
Audit & Accuracy: Verifies payroll output against reports and registers; supports audits and maintains meticulous documentation.
System Administration: Manages T&A system setup, vendor coordination, user support, and troubleshooting.
User Training & Support: Educates T&A users on common errors, promotes accountability, and improves process efficiency.
Data Oversight: Oversees time collection, coding corrections, LOA tracking, and monitors overtime fluctuations.
Inquiry Resolution: Handles payroll-related tickets and inquiries with discretion, ensuring swift and professional responses.
Customer Service Excellence: Builds strong relationships across HR, employees, and management through responsive support.
Orientation & Onboarding: Assists with new hire onboarding and payroll setup during orientation sessions.
HRIS Administration: Manages employee lifecycle transactions including hires, terminations, and status changes.
File & Record Management: Maintains I-9s, personnel files, and ensures record retention compliance.
Legal Compliance: Ensures adherence to employment laws including ERISA, FMLA, FLSA, ADA, OSHA, and COBRA.
Recognition Programs: Supports service awards and other pay-related employee recognition initiatives.
Project Participation: Contributes to HR and plant improvement projects, ASAT reporting, and other assigned initiatives.
HR Reporting & Support: Coordinates daily, weekly, and monthly HR reports; provides backup support to HR team members.