Senior Payroll Specialist
About The Position
The Senior Payroll Specialist role at Ocean State Job Lot (“OSJL” and “Company”) is a key professional and administrative role within the Human Resource department, responsible for the strategic oversight and execution of payroll operations for over 6,000 associates across multiple states. This position requires the exercise of discretion and independent judgment in matters of significance, including the interpretation of complex tax laws, the implementation of payroll policies, and the management of high-level compliance audits. The Senior Payroll Specialist role serves as a subject matter expert, ensuring the integrity of the Company’s financial obligations regarding labor and compensation.
Requirements
- 5 or more years of progressive, professional payroll experience, including multi-state processing.
- Demonstrated experience managing payroll for large organizations (6,000+ associates) is preferred.
- Advanced understanding of federal, state, and local payroll tax laws.
- Experience with professional tax filings (941, 940) and complex reconciliations.
- Proficiency in HRIS and payroll software (e.g., UKG, ADP) and advanced capabilities in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
- Strong analytical and organizational leadership skills; ability to handle high-level confidential data with professional discretion.
- Proven ability to work independently, meet high-stakes deadlines, and manage high-volume workloads without immediate supervision.
Responsibilities
- Direct the end-to-end weekly payroll lifecycle for approximately 6,000 associates, ensuring the accurate application of Company policy and regulatory requirements.
- Interpret and ensure ongoing organizational compliance with evolving federal, state, and local payroll and labor laws. Proactively research and analyze legislative changes to advise leadership on necessary policy adjustments.
- Manage the complex calculation and reconciliation of payroll deductions, including multi-state tax jurisdictions, health benefits, and 401(k) contributions.
- Independently research and resolve escalated payroll matters, including complex wage garnishments, child support orders, and internal compensation discrepancies.
- Design and execute comprehensive audit procedures to ensure data integrity; exercise authority to correct systemic discrepancies and improve internal controls.
- Lead year-end payroll processing, including the management of W-2 preparation, tax reconciliations, and reporting, ensuring total alignment with IRS and state regulations.
- Lead and execute special projects, such as software implementations, process improvements, or policy development, aimed at increasing departmental efficiency.
Benefits
- Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including but not limited to Medical, Dental, Vision, and much more.
- 401K Program
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Associate Store 30% Discounts
- Enjoy complimentary access to OSJL-owned vacation properties, along with discounted gym memberships and 20% off at OSJL affiliated restaurants.
- Free lunch Fridays
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
