Lead Payroll Operations Specialist

We are looking for an experienced payroll specialist to lead day-to-day payroll operations for a non-profit organization in North Charleston, South Carolina. This role supports accurate, timely payroll processing while helping strengthen internal controls and team performance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily payroll activities and help organize workflow to ensure processing stays on schedule and meets established service expectations.
• Review payroll entries, adjustments, and supporting records to confirm accuracy, completeness, and compliance before final submission.
• Act as the primary resource for team members who need support with complex earnings, deductions, tax treatments, and other payroll calculations.
• Investigate payroll discrepancies, troubleshoot processing issues, and drive timely resolution to minimize disruption for employees and stakeholders.
• Conduct quality assurance checks across payroll operations and recommend corrective actions when inconsistencies or control gaps are identified.
• Monitor recurring issues and data patterns, then suggest process improvements that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and reliability.
• Provide day-to-day direction, coaching, and operational support to payroll staff to maintain strong performance and consistency.
• Serve as the first point of escalation for payroll concerns, addressing more advanced issues before leadership intervention is needed.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience managing full-cycle payroll processing in a high-volume environment supporting more than 500 employees.
• Hands-on expertise with multi-state payroll administration, including accurate handling of varying tax and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency using ADP Workforce Now for payroll processing, review, and issue resolution.
• Experience supporting bi-monthly payroll cycles with strong attention to deadlines and detail.
• Advanced knowledge of payroll calculations, adjustments, reconciliations, and documentation review.
• Ability to identify errors, analyze root causes, and implement practical solutions to improve payroll operations.
• Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to guide staff and address escalated payroll matters effectively.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance.
• Eligibility to enroll in our company 401(k) plan.
• Access to top jobs, competitive compensation, and free online training.