Payroll Specialist

Riot Blockchain • Austin, TX

36d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist is a critical position responsible for managing payroll operations across seven entities in multiple states, serving approximately 700+ employees. This role demands technical expertise in payroll processing and compliance, strong collaboration skills, and a commitment to exceptional customer service. As the primary contact for employee payroll inquiries, you will ensure seamless integration between payroll, accounting, and benefits functions. This position reports to the Director, Total Rewards and Systems.

Requirements

• Deep knowledge of state tax compliance, multi-state payroll regulations, and wage garnishment laws.
• Proficiency in HRIS and payroll platforms; experience with Rippling is a significant plus.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities with a high level of attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with a service-oriented approach to employee support.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive, confidential information with the utmost discretion.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., VLOOKUPs, pivot tables).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience managing multi-state, multi-entity payroll in complex environments.

Nice To Haves

• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification is highly preferred.
• Experience with major platforms such as ADP, Workday, Dayforce, or SAP SuccessFactors is valued.

Responsibilities

• Manage weekly, bi-weekly, and semi-monthly payroll cycles for all entities, ensuring all employees are paid accurately and on time.
• Review and validate timekeeping data, proactively reconciling hours worked, overtime, and leave balances to resolve discrepancies before submission.
• Collect, calculate, and enter payroll data to maintain up-to-date records, including summaries of earnings, taxes, deductions, and non-taxable wages.
• Process employee lifecycle changes, including new hires, terminations, and wage increases, ensuring all updates are reflected accurately.
• Support year-end payroll close processes and the preparation of W-2s.
• Ensure strict compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and tax regulations, including timely tax filings and audit record maintenance.
• Set up and maintain state tax accounts as the organization expands into new jurisdictions.
• Prepare and reconcile payroll tax withholdings, wage garnishments, and voluntary deductions.
• Stay current on legislative changes in payroll and tax requirements, adapting internal processes to remain compliant.
• Coordinate with the Accounting team to ensure accurate ledger entries and payroll-related journal postings.
• Partner closely with Benefits and Compensation teams to ensure correct deductions for health insurance, retirement plans (401k), and other programs.
• Prepare and deliver comprehensive payroll reports for management, audits, and cross-functional departments.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee payroll inquiries and employment/wage verifications, responding promptly and professionally.
• Identify and implement opportunities to streamline payroll processes, leveraging technology and best practices to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Support system upgrades and payroll technology enhancements to ensure the organization remains aligned with industry standards.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• 401k plan with company matching
• Great medical, vision, and dental plans to choose from
• Long-term and Short-term disability
• Additional benefit options (Employee Assistance Program, Pet Insurance, and more)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• A fun company culture with tremendous growth opportunities!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees