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Payroll Specialist
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Based on Virginia data
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What they do
A Payroll Specialist manages the financial and accounting work involved in processing payroll for a company or organization. Manages employee benefits programs and payroll deductions, or assists with evaluating compensation levels for different job categories and titles.
$52,858 / year median in Virginia
-7% projected decline
Job Description
Our growing manufacturing organization is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Representative to join our Shared Services team in Charlottesville, VA. This role is ideal for an early-career payroll professional with 1-3 years of payroll experience who is looking to build a long-term career in payroll and shared services. The Payroll Representative will support the timely and accurate processing of multi-state payroll while delivering exceptional customer service to employees and business partners. The successful candidate will possess a strong understanding of payroll concepts, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Key Responsibilities Assist with the preparation, validation, and processing of weekly, biweekly, and semimonthly payrolls for multiple business units. Review employee payroll data for accuracy, including new hires, terminations, promotions, pay rate changes, deductions, and direct deposit updates. Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, timekeeping issues, tax questions, and employee inquiries in a timely and professional manner. Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with company policies, federal and state regulations, and wage and hour laws. Partner with Human Resources, Accounting, Benefits, and site leadership to ensure accurate payroll processing. Audit payroll reports before and after processing to identify and resolve discrepancies. Assist with year-end payroll activities, including W-2 preparation and reconciliation. Support payroll tax reporting and garnishment processing as needed. Maintain confidentiality of employee payroll information and sensitive data. Document payroll procedures and contribute to continuous process improvement initiatives. Participate in payroll system testing, upgrades, and special projects. Provide outstanding customer service while responding to employee questions via phone, email, and ticketing systems. Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required. 1-3 years of payroll processing experience. Basic understanding of payroll principles, payroll taxes, wage and hour regulations, and payroll calculations. Strong customer service orientation with the ability to communicate professionally at all levels of the organization. Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail and accuracy. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Effective verbal and written communication skills. Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and meet strict deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word. Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism. Preferred Qualifications Associate's or Bachelor's degree coursework in Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field. Experience with PeopleSoft or another HRIS/payroll system. Fundamentals of Payroll Certification (FPC) or a demonstrated interest in pursuing payroll certification. Experience supporting payroll in a multi-state or manufacturing environment. Familiarity with timekeeping systems and payroll reconciliations.