Senior Payroll Administrator

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Senior Payroll Specialist brings hands-on expertise in processing complex, high-volume multi-state payrolls while maintaining 100% accuracy and strict compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. In this role, you'll take ownership of end-to-end payroll processing for 1,000+ employees, resolve intricate payroll issues that require advanced technical knowledge, mentor junior team members, and serve as the escalation point for non-routine payroll challenges. You'll drive operational excellence, process improvements, and ensure timely, compliant payroll delivery across multiple jurisdictions while managing specialized payroll functions such as garnishments, tax registrations, year-end balancing, and multi-jurisdictional requirements.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Core Payroll Processing & Accuracy Process bi-weekly multi-state payroll for 1,000+ employees with 100% accuracy and on-time delivery across all pay cycles Manage end-to-end payroll processing in Workday HCM Payroll module, ensuring accurate data entry, system integrity, and compliance Conduct comprehensive payroll audits and reconciliations to identify and resolve discrepancies proactively Verify benefit premium deductions and ensure accurate withholding amounts for each pay period Complex & Specialized Payroll Functions Execute specialized payroll tasks including garnishments, child support orders, wage attachments, levies, and escheatment processing Manage multi-jurisdictional, international, and expat payrolls while ensuring compliance with country-specific regulations Process and track wage garnishments and child support orders in full compliance with legal requirements Handle tax registrations, notices, and year-end balancing across all applicable jurisdictions Coordinate with payroll vendors on tax jurisdiction updates, banking changes, and processing requirement changes Problem Resolution & Escalation Support Serve as second-level support, resolving complex payroll discrepancies and issues that routine analysts cannot handle Act as the primary point of contact for complex, non-routine payroll queries, researching and resolving discrepancies with thoroughness and accuracy Research payroll-related issues independently, utilizing compliance resources and vendor support to reach resolution Process and respond to payroll-related tickets in a timely manner with appropriate documentation and necessary approvals Compliance, Audits & Reporting Liaison with external and internal auditors, managing payroll tax audits and ensuring full documentation and compliance Review and process authorized employment verification requests within 48 business hours of receipt Maintain accurate payroll records and prepare reports in accordance with Federal, State, and local laws Ensure payroll best practices and procedures are adhered to and documented Maintain employee confidence by protecting payroll operations and keeping all information strictly confidential Team Leadership & Development Provide training, guidance, and mentorship to new hires and junior Payroll Analysts, strengthening overall team capabilities Share technical expertise and best practices with team members to improve payroll processing efficiency Demonstrate leadership through problem-solving approach and proactive identification of process improvements Process Improvement & System Management Lead special payroll-related projects, including process improvements, system enhancements, company mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring efforts Participate in payroll system updates and enhancements, coordinating with IT support and payroll vendors Identify opportunities to streamline payroll operations and implement solutions that enhance accuracy and efficiency Maintain payroll operations by following policies and procedures; report needed changes to leadership Cross-Functional Collaboration Collaborate with Human Resources and Finance teams to ensure accurate payroll processing and regulatory compliance Communicate payroll requirements and updates to stakeholders across the organization Coordinate with external partners including tax authorities, benefit providers, and payroll service vendors

QUALIFICATIONS

Required 5+ years of hands-on, end-to-end payroll processing experience in high-volume environments (1,000+ employees), demonstrating mastery of multi-state payroll operations 2+ years of proven mentorship, training, or leadership experience with payroll teams or junior payroll analysts Advanced expertise in payroll compliance, including multi-state tax regulations, garnishments, wage attachments, levies, and year-end processing Proficiency with payroll systems (Workday, ADP, Paychex, or similar HRIS platforms) Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Human Resources, or related field Deep understanding of multi-location, multi-state, and multi-country payroll operations and tax requirements Comprehensive knowledge of current payroll procedures and federal, state, and local payroll laws Expertise in wage attachment processing, including garnishments, child support orders, levies, and other legal deductions Strong organizational and leadership skills with ability to manage multiple priorities and mentor others Exceptional attention to detail with demonstrated ability to maintain 100% accuracy in high-volume environments Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) with ability to explain complex payroll concepts clearly Ability to exercise considerable discretion and judgment in handling highly confidential information Proactive, flexible, and assertive problem-solver with creative approach to resolving complex payroll issues Preferred FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification) or CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification Background from payroll service providers (ADP, Paychex, Conduent, etc.) or large employer payroll departments Advanced expertise with Workday Payroll module or similar HRIS systems (ADP, Paychex) Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, INDEX/MATCH, data analysis) or Google Sheets Experience in contact center, BPO, or high-volume operational environments Demonstrated familiarity with payroll audit and compliance processes Experience managing payroll tax audits or working with external auditors

TELUS VALUES TELUS

recognizes and embraces the importance of values in our ever-changing workplace. To be successful, all applicants must demonstrate behaviors reflective of our values: We passionately put our customers and communities first We embrace change and innovate courageously We grow together through spirited teamwork At TELUS, we are committed to diversity and equitable access to employment opportunities based on ability.

Pay:

$20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person