Payroll Specialist

Cherry Bekaert • Washington, DC

12d • $80,000 - $90,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Our client, a well-established organization, is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to join their growing finance and HR operations team. This role is critical to ensuring accurate, timely payroll processing while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This is an excellent opportunity for a payroll professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, values accuracy, and enjoys partnering cross-functionally with HR and Finance teams.

Requirements

• 3–5+ years of hands-on payroll processing experience
• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, taxes, and compliance requirements
• Experience with payroll systems such as ADP, UKG, Workday, Paychex, or similar platforms
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
• Proficiency in Excel and payroll reporting

Nice To Haves

• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification a plus, but not required

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly or semi-monthly payroll for multiple employee populations, including salaried and hourly staff
• Ensure compliance with all payroll-related laws and regulations (FLSA, state/local tax regulations, garnishments, etc.)
• Maintain and audit payroll records, including new hires, terminations, pay changes, and benefits deductions
• Reconcile payroll reports and respond to payroll-related inquiries from employees and leadership
• Collaborate with HR and Accounting on benefits administration, timekeeping, and general ledger entries
• Prepare payroll tax filings and support audits as needed
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes and controls

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees