Sr. Payroll Specialist

Stratus•San Antonio, TX

4d•$70,000 - $85,000•Remote

About The Position

The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing for all employees while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role serves as a subject matter expert in payroll operations, supporting audits, system improvements, and process efficiencies. The Senior Payroll Specialist collaborates with People & Culture, Finance, and external vendors to resolve payroll-related inquiries and continuously enhance payroll processes.

Requirements

Extensive knowledge of weekly payroll processing, multi-state taxation, and compliance regulations.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for accuracy and detail.
Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Workday, UKG) and Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUPs, Pivot Tables).
Strong understanding of FLSA, wage and hour laws, payroll tax laws, and regulatory reporting.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact with employees at all levels of the organization.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
5+ years of payroll processing experience in a multi-state environment, with weekly payroll experience preferred.

Nice To Haves

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Process weekly and off-cycle payrolls, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, overtime, deductions, and tax withholdings.
Review, audit, and reconcile payroll data, including timekeeping records, benefits deductions, and adjustments for accuracy and compliance.
Act as a payroll subject matter expert, advising internal stakeholders on payroll policies, tax regulations, and compliance requirements.
Maintain payroll systems and ensure payroll transactions align with company policies and government regulations.
Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, employee inquiries, and escalated issues in a timely and professional manner.
Process wage garnishments, child support orders, and other legally mandated payroll deductions.
Ensure payroll tax filings, year-end reporting, W-2 distribution, and compliance with multi-state tax laws.
Assist with system upgrades, implementation, and optimization of payroll software, ensuring seamless integration with People & Culture and accounting systems.
Develop and maintain payroll process documentation, standard operating procedures, and training materials.
Support internal and external payroll audits by providing necessary reports and documentation.
Generate payroll reports and analytics, identifying trends and opportunities for process improvements.
Stay updated on changes in payroll regulations, tax laws, and best practices to maintain compliance and efficiency.