Payroll Specialist

JOB TITLE

Payroll Specialist

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

Reports to the Payroll Manager

FLSA STATUS

Non-Exempt - Full Time

DEPARTMENT

Accounting

LOCATION

Lynnwood Home Office

POSITION SUMMARY

KEY

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Payroll Specialist This position directly contributes to the success of the organization by ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for 9,000+ employees. This role supports the day-to-day execution of bi-weekly, multi-state payroll operations in a high-volume environment. The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing payroll transactions, performing reconciliations, supporting payroll tax and garnishment administration, and assisting with payroll-related accounting activities. This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to troubleshoot discrepancies, and a working knowledge of payroll laws and compliance requirements.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Process payroll data including regular wages, bonuses, commissions, terminations, and off-cycle payments Administer payroll adjustments including retroactive pay, corrections, and stop payments Perform payroll reconciliations, including review of payroll registers and investigation of discrepancies Prepare and support payroll-related journal entries and assist with general ledger tie-outs Assist with payroll tax activities including research, adjustments, and resolution of tax discrepancies or notices Administer wage garnishments including setup, calculation, prioritization, and coordination with agencies Validate payroll files and reports to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance Upload, audit, and transmit payroll files to third-party vendors and service providers Support pay card processing, funding, and employee setup Respond to employee inquiries related to payroll, deductions, taxes, and timekeeping Coordinate with internal teams (HR, Accounting, Benefits) to ensure accurate payroll inputs Maintain and update payroll process documentation and procedures Support quarter-end and year-end payroll activities as needed Identify process improvement opportunities and support implementation efforts Manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced, high-volume environment Perform other duties as assigned

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail Ability to identify, investigate, and resolve payroll discrepancies Strong understanding of confidentiality and data sensitivity Effective communication and customer service skills Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines Strong organizational and time management skills Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis preferred) Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Required:

1-3 years of experience in payroll processing, multi-state payroll, or related area Basic understanding of payroll laws and regulations (including FLSA and payroll tax fundamentals) Experience supporting payroll reconciliations and resolving discrepancies Intermediate Excel skills High School Diploma or equivalent

Preferred:

Experience with payroll tax processing, research, or notice resolution Experience administering wage garnishments Experience preparing or supporting payroll journal entries Experience with payroll systems (e.g., UKG, Ceridian/Dayforce, ADP, Workday, or similar) Experience with full cycle payroll (end to end processing)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position involves primarily desk-based work using a computer in an office or remote environment. Extended periods of sitting and computer use are typical. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

BENEFITS

Salary Range:

$60,000 - $70,000 annually Long Term Incentive eligible Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance following an initial waiting period 401(k) after meeting eligibility requirements Paid Parental Leave Life Insurance Paid Vacation Paid Sick Leave Stock Purchase Program Employee Discount on Zumiez products

Pay:

$28.84 - $33.65 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Flexible schedule Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person