Payroll Specialist

Talen Energy • Allentown, PA

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll for hourly and salaried employees, including those covered by multiple collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as union contract requirements, and serves as a key liaison within the HR function. At Talen Energy, your work directly supports safe, reliable power generation. In this role, you’ll move beyond day‑to‑day contributions to drive meaningful change.

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field preferred.
• Experience working with multiple union contracts preferred.
• 3+ years of payroll experience, with direct union payroll experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of collective bargaining agreements and union payroll rules.
• Knowledge of payroll laws and regulations (FLSA, tax withholding, garnishments).
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and confidentiality.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

• Additional years of directly related experience may be accepted.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) a plus.
• Workday experience a plus.

Responsibilities

• Process multi-state bi-weekly and any off cycle payrolls for union and non-union employees under several EINs.
• Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, shift differentials, bonuses, garnishments, and deductions.
• Maintain payroll records in compliance with company policies and legal requirements.
• Interpret and apply collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) to payroll processing.
• Manage union-specific pay rules including: Overtime rules and premiums, Shift differentials and job classifications, Vacation, holiday, and sick pay accruals, Retroactive pay adjustments.
• Calculate and process union dues, fees, and benefit contributions accurately.
• Coordinate with HR Business Partners regarding payroll inquiries and discrepancies.
• Ensure compliance with FLSA, IRS regulations, state/local wage laws, and union agreements.
• Prepare and reconcile payroll reports, including tax filings, union reports, and certified payroll (if applicable).
• Support audits by providing payroll documentation and responding to inquiries.
• Maintain accurate employee payroll data in HRIS/payroll systems (e.g. Workday, Equifax, etc.).
• Verify timekeeping system inputs and resolve discrepancies.
• Collaborate with HR Business Partners and Operations to ensure correct employee classification and pay rates.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, prescription plans, life insurance, and disability insurance.
• Employees are eligible to participate in Talen Energy’s 401(k) plan.
• Competitive vacation and sick time.

What This Job Offers

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