Senior Payroll Specialist - Tax and Garnishments

Mountain America Credit Union•Sandy, UT

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for leading and executing complex payroll operations, garnishment requirements, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and driving process improvements. This role serves as the primary point of contact for payroll-related matters, partners cross-functionally to optimize workflows, and mentors junior staff to build team capability.

Requirements

3+ years payroll experience in a multi-state environment
2+ years experience in payroll tax filing and garnishment processing
Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, particularly Excel, Word and Outlook
Ability to accurately handle large and complex data sets
Excellent judgment with analytical and problem-solving mindset
The professionalism to function in a highly confidential environment
Strong in-depth working knowledge of payroll principles, rules and regulations and demonstrated strong payroll technical skills in a variety of areas including, payroll processing, reporting, payroll taxes, garnishment, etc.
Strong understanding of internal controls as it relates to payroll
Experience with local, state, and federal payroll and tax laws
Skill in handling workload fluctuations and multiple requests
Knowledge and mindset for automation and improvements to improve processes for scalability
Payroll procedures, reports and analysis

Nice To Haves

Experience mentoring and training preferred
Experience with accounting preferred
Workday payroll software experience preferred
FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification) or CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) is preferred.
Knowledge of the financial institution a plus.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary resource for payroll team members, providing guidance and resolving escalated issues.
Own and maintain payroll process documentation, SOPs, and training materials.
Partners with Payroll Manager to train and mentor payroll staff, fostering skill development and knowledge sharing.
Partner with HR, Legal, and external vendors to develop efficient payroll workflows and resolve complex issues.
Work with analyst on special projects including system updates, integrations, upgrades, and new implementations.
Identify opportunities for process optimization and automation within payroll operations.
Support external audits (e.g., 401(k), workers’ compensation, financial audits) by providing accurate documentation and analysis.
Oversee end-to-end bi-weekly payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
Set up and handle employer registrations for new state, SUI, and local jurisdictions.
Accurately enter wage garnishments, child support orders, and tax levies within Workday and Safari.
Maintain accurate records of all garnishment transactions and correspondence.
Verify all garnishment payments, including amounts and deduction recipient information.
Audit off-cycle manual checks and ensure proper documentation and controls.
Reconcile bi-weekly and quarterly tax reports to ensure accurate payments and timely filings.
Assist in the preparation and submission of annual tax documents and reports.
Ensure adherence to internal payroll controls and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with the Payroll Manager on financial period close activities and resolution of outstanding payroll issues.
Perform root cause analysis of payroll discrepancies and implement corrective procedure.
Generate and review payroll reports for internal stakeholders, audits, and compliance purposes.
Maintain current knowledge of payroll laws, taxation requirements, and industry best practices.
Actively contribute to the continuous improvement of payroll systems and team capabilities.