Sr. Payroll Specialist

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra • Baltimore, MD

1d

About The Position

The Sr. Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of bi-weekly payroll for the organization. This role serves as the primary subject-matter expert for payroll operations, ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, and overseeing payroll-related reporting, audits, and system enhancements. The position partners closely with Human Resources, Finance, and external vendors to support payroll accuracy, benefits deductions, tax filings, and employee inquiries while maintaining the highest level of confidentiality and internal control.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Five to seven (5–7) years of progressive payroll experience, preferably in a complex or multi-entity environment.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations.
• Proficiency with payroll systems (ADP preferred) and Microsoft Excel.
• Demonstrated ability to manage high-volume, deadline-driven payroll processes with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

Nice To Haves

• Seven to ten (7–10+) years of payroll experience.
• Experience with union payroll, multi-state payroll, or nonprofit organizations.
• Experience supporting audits, grants, or regulatory reporting.
• Advanced Excel skills and payroll reconciliation experience.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll to ensure employees are paid accurately and on time.
• Ensure payroll operations comply with all federal, state, and local tax laws and employment regulations.
• Review and validate wage calculations, tax withholdings, benefit deductions, and other payroll adjustments.
• Process and remit garnishments, child support orders, and other court-ordered deductions in accordance with legal requirements.
• Serve as the primary contact for payroll tax notices and resolve issues as needed.
• Administer payroll-related benefit deductions, including 403(b), HSA, union dues, and other applicable programs.
• Coordinate with HR on employee changes such as hires, terminations, compensation changes, and benefit elections.
• Support new hire onboarding related to payroll and retirement plan enrollment, including system and provider portal entry.
• Prepare and review payroll-related reports on a monthly, quarterly, annual, and ad hoc basis.
• Reconcile quarterly Form 941 filings, unemployment reports, and annual ACA reporting.
• Manage year-end payroll processes, including W-2 preparation and audit support.
• Participate in internal and external audits, grants reporting, and compliance reviews related to payroll.
• Maintain payroll policies, procedures, and documentation to support internal controls and audit readiness.
• Partner with HR and Finance on payroll system updates, configurations, and upgrades.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, efficiency, and risk mitigation within payroll operations.
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries with professionalism, accuracy, and discretion.
• Research and resolve payroll discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Two low-cost medical plan options for employees.
• Employer-Paid Insurance: Dental, life, and long-term disability insurance are fully covered by the BSO.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Includes ample vacation, personal, and sick leave.
• Financial Wellness & Retirement:
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for Dependent Care
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Exclusive BSO Perks: Complimentary or discounted tickets to BSO performances.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree