Ascend Nonprofit Solutions - Payroll Specialist

Ascend Nonprofit Solutions • Charlotte, NC

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll in
alignment with organizational policies, federal and state regulations, and internal controls. This role
supports end-to-end payroll administration, timekeeping, data integrity, and employee payroll inquiries.
This role works closely with the Director, Compensation & Benefits and in partnership with Finance. The
Payroll Specialist plays a critical role in maintaining payroll accuracy, ensuring proper documentation, and
supporting continuous improvement of payroll processes and systems.

Requirements

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or related field.
• 2-4 years of payroll processing experience required.
• Experience with HRIS/payroll systems (Paycom preferred).
• Knowledge of federal and state wage and hour laws, payroll taxes, and compliance requirements.
• Experience working in Human Resources or in partnership with Human Resources.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage confidential and sensitive information.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet payroll deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and HRIS/payroll platforms.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly/semi-monthly payroll accurately and on time.
• Review and validate timekeeping records, corrections, and exceptions prior to payroll submission.
• Support input and maintenance of payroll and benefits data in applicable systems as needed.
• Ensure proper application of wage and hour laws, overtime, and other payroll regulations.
• Identify and resolve payroll discrepancies, errors, and exceptions in a timely manner.
• Support off-cycle payrolls, bonuses, retro pay, and special payments as needed.
• Maintain organized payroll records in accordance with retention requirements.
• Serve as a support for timekeeping system questions and troubleshooting.
• Support HRIS and payroll system updates, testing, and integrations as directed.
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely, professional, and confidential manner.
• Assist with compliance related to federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
• Support year-end payroll activities and audits as applicable.
• Assist with payroll-related audits, documentation requests, and internal controls.
• Maintain confidentiality of all payroll and personnel information.
• Partner with Finance on payroll reconciliation and reporting as needed.
• Document payroll processes and assist in maintaining standard operating procedures.
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll efficiency, accuracy, and automation.
• Participate in payroll and Human Resources projects as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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