Senior Payroll Specialist

YWCA Seattle King Snohomish•Seattle, WA

16d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Payroll Specialist plays a key role in supporting the organization’s operations through accurate, consistent and compliant payroll administration. The Payroll Department is responsible for all internal payroll functions, including timekeeping review, payroll processing, benefit deductions and payroll tax administration for all employees on a semi-monthly basis. Reporting to the Payroll Manager, this position is responsible for full-cycle payroll processing, including reconciliation, auditing and recordkeeping. The role requires a high level of independence, strong judgment and the ability to consistently review and verify one’s own work for accuracy in a deadline-driven environment. This position also plays an important role in ensuring payroll data integrity and supporting post-payroll functions, including benefit reconciliations and audit readiness. At YWCA, all staff are expected to actively engage in ongoing learning and apply training, tools and self-development to ground their work in the organization’s mission and commitment to anti-racism and social justice. This role contributes to that work by supporting equitable, consistent payroll practices across a diverse, multi-site workforce. While YWCA’s mission focuses on eliminating racism and empowering women, our workforce is intentionally inclusive. We welcome applicants of all genders, identities, and backgrounds who are committed to advancing our mission. This is a hybrid position, with the ability to work remotely and scheduled in-office days at a YWCA location based on proximity to the employee’s residence. YWCA has locations across Seattle, Renton, East King County and Snohomish County, allowing for a site assignment that supports both organizational needs and employee convenience.

Requirements

3 to 5 years of full-cycle payroll processing experience, including post-payroll reconciliations, benefit invoice reconciliation, and audit support.
Demonstrated experience independently managing payroll in a deadline-driven environment, including timely completion of post-payroll tasks.
Proven experience reconciling payroll to the general ledger and benefit invoices, with the ability to identify and resolve discrepancies without reliance on others.
Experience supporting internal and external audits, including preparing payroll documentation and responding to audit requests.
Strong proficiency in Excel and experience with payroll systems, databases, and HRIS platforms.
Proven ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
Demonstrated ability to review, audit and verify one’s own work and identify errors prior to final processing.
Strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment in researching and resolving payroll discrepancies.
High level of attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and confidentiality.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Strong customer service skills with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally with employees at all levels.
Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, including engagement in race and social justice efforts.

Nice To Haves

Experience with multi-state payroll preferred.
Experience with Paylocity preferred.

Responsibilities

Process end-to-end semi-monthly payroll for 320+ employees across multiple states.
Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, retroactive pay, bonuses, deductions, garnishments, and benefit withholdings.
Review and audit timesheets for completeness, compliance, and proper approvals.
Audit payroll data and system entries to identify and resolve discrepancies prior to finalization.
Reconcile payroll to benefit invoices and the general ledger; partner with HR and Accounting to resolve discrepancies.
Prepare payroll-related reconciliations, reports and documentation for month-end and year-end close, audits and funder reporting.
Maintain audit-ready payroll records and documentation.
Review state and federal payroll tax filings for accuracy and completeness.
Maintain compliance with federal, state and local payroll laws and regulations, with a focus on Washington State requirements.
Maintain payroll records and ensure accuracy, completeness and data integrity within payroll systems.
Maintain and improve payroll procedures, internal controls and documentation.
Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies, benefit issues and employee inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
Collaborate with Human Resources on employee data changes, benefits, leaves and compensation updates.
Monitor and respond to payroll-related email inquiries with clear, accurate communication.
Deliver semi-monthly new hire orientation presentations related to payroll and timekeeping.
Manage repayment tracking and monthly reconciliation of Employee Emergency Loans.
Cross-train across payroll functions and provide backup support across the payroll team.
Actively engage in the agency’s Race and Social Justice Initiative (RSJI), supporting equitable practices and contributing to an inclusive workplace.