Senior Payroll Specialist

Skillcloud HCM • Boston, MA

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

Skillcloud HCM Solutions is an HR Managed Services company that helps organizations manage their people operations with confidence, flexibility, and accountability. Due to new growth and expansion we have an exciting opportunity available for a Senior Payroll Specialist to work in either the Cincinnati or Boston locations. Skillcloud HCM supports HR, payroll, compliance, and workforce operations through a mix of managed services, interim support, and project-based engagements. From day-to-day execution to moments of transition or transformation, Skillcloud acts as an extension of the team to keep people operations running smoothly. Partnership is central to how we deliver value. The Senior Payroll Specialist supports accurate, compliant, and timely payroll delivery for clients by handling more complex payroll scenarios and serving as a knowledgeable resource for the payroll team. This role builds on the Payroll Specialist position by managing higher-complexity payroll work, assisting with audits and reconciliations, and supporting issue resolution and quality review. The Senior Payroll Specialist partners closely with Payroll Client Managers and internal teams to ensure consistent payroll execution and strong client outcomes.

Requirements

• 3–6 years of payroll processing or payroll administration experience
• Strong working knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements
• Experience supporting multi-state payrolls and complex payroll scenarios
• Experience with payroll systems and HCM/HRIS platforms
• High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Strong communication skills and collaborative work style
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field preferred
• Payroll certifications (e.g., FPC or CPP) a plus

Responsibilities

• Provide advanced payroll support to clients by responding to payroll inquiries, explaining payroll results, and assisting with issue resolution in coordination with Payroll Client Managers.
• Process and support complex payrolls, including multi-state, off-cycle, and adjusted payrolls. Review payroll data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance prior to submission.
• Research and resolve more complex payroll discrepancies, historical adjustments, and corrections. Escalate higher-risk issues as appropriate and support root-cause analysis.
• Assist with payroll audits, register reviews, and compliance checks to ensure adherence to federal, state, and local payroll regulations. Support implementation of regulatory updates.
• Support quarterly and year-end payroll activities, including W-2s, 1099s, amended filings, and agency correspondence, under the direction of payroll leadership.
• Maintain accurate payroll system data, including earnings, deductions, tax configurations, and employee records. Assist with testing and validation related to system updates or integrations.
• Support administration and reconciliation of payroll deductions, including garnishments, retirement contributions, and benefit premiums.
• Generate and review payroll reports to identify discrepancies, trends, or issues. Assist in preparing client-requested and internal payroll reports.
• Serve as a peer resource for Payroll Specialists by answering questions, sharing best practices, and supporting consistent payroll processes.
• Contribute to payroll process improvements, documentation updates, and quality controls to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Work closely with Payroll Client Managers, HCM, HR, and Data Services teams to support integrated client service delivery.

Benefits

• Opportunity for a flexible full time hybrid work schedule
• Comprehensive benefit package and robust paid time off program
• Paid SHRM membership
• Access to a team and library of resources, tools and technology to help you be successful

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior