Payroll Specialist

Description What You'll Do Process Documentation & SOPs + Own the payroll documentation library (SOPs, desk procedures, playbooks, RACI, controls narratives, and process maps). + Create role‑based, step‑by‑step procedures for recurring cycles (regular, off‑cycle, retro, year‑end, bonuses, leaves, etc). + Document Workday flows, upstream/downstream dependencies, and integrations impacting payroll (KRONOS timekeeping, benefits, GL, cash). + Version, review, and publish documents, with clear naming conventions and change history. Controls & Compliance + Define and maintain key controls (preventive and detective) for earnings, deductions, taxes, retirement plans (e.g., 403(b)), and audits. + Partner with Internal Audit/Accounting on control design, walkthroughs, and SOX‑aligned evidence. + Implement and refine checklists and validation steps for pre‑payroll processing, payroll run, reconciliation, and post‑pay cycle activities, including funding requests. + Standardize retro and exception handling (e.g., on‑call, overtime, garnishments, leaves). Quality & Continuous Improvement + Lead process mapping (SIPOC & swimlanes) to identify gaps, risks, and simplification opportunities. + Create QA frameworks and peer review protocols for documentation updates. + Monitor error trends (e.g., retro adjustments, off‑cycles, escalations); recommend fixes and create knowledge articles. Enablement & Change Management + Build quick‑reference guides, decision trees, and training for Payroll Specialists/Payroll Partners. + Coordinate change notes and release communications when Workday configuration/processes change. + Ensure documents are accessible, searchable, and aligned with access controls. Requirements Must‑Haves + 3-5 years experience with Technical writing + Excellent writing skills; able to make complex steps clear, concise, and actionable. + Demonstrated experience writing payroll SOPs and controls documentation. + Proficiency with process mapping (e.g., Visio). Nice‑to‑Haves +

Certifications:

FPC/CPP, PMP/Lean/Six Sigma, or Workday. + Hands‑on with Workday Payroll (or similar HCM/Payroll), including business processes and reporting. + Strong knowledge of U.S.

payroll:

FLSA, multi‑state rules, taxability, retro calculations, retirement plan eligibility, year‑end forms. + Experience with Payroll Operations, or Payroll/HRIS Business Analysis. Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) and Privacy Notice (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy) .