Payroll Specialist

Description The Payroll Specialist is responsible for accurately and timely processing payroll while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role partners closely with HR, Accounting, and internal stakeholders to maintain payroll integrity, resolve discrepancies, and support reporting and audit requirements. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, process‑driven, and comfortable managing payroll in a deadline‑driven environment. Key Responsibilities + Process bi‑weekly, semi‑monthly, or monthly payroll for hourly and salaried employees + Ensure accurate calculation of wages, bonuses, commissions, overtime, and deductions + Maintain payroll records in compliance with company policy and regulatory requirements + Verify payroll changes including new hires, terminations, benefits, garnishments, and tax withholdings + Reconcile payroll reports and resolve discrepancies prior to submission + Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely and professional manner + Prepare payroll journals and assist with general ledger reconciliation + Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations + Assist with payroll audits, year‑end processing, and W‑2 preparation + Collaborate with HR and Accounting to support employee data accuracy and reporting needs Requirements Required Qualifications + 2+ years of payroll processing experience for multi‑state or multi‑entity environments + Strong knowledge of payroll regulations, tax compliance, and wage and hour laws + Experience with payroll systems (ADP, Paychex, UKG, Workday, or similar platforms) + Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data validation and reconciliations + High attention to detail with strong organizational and time‑management skills + Ability to work independently and meet strict payroll deadlines + Strong written and verbal communication skills Preferred Qualifications + CPP or FPC certification + Experience supporting audits or year‑end payroll processes + Exposure to benefits administration or HRIS systems + Prior experience in high‑volume or fast‑paced payroll environments 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) .