Payroll Specialist

Location: Charlotte, NC – Hybrid schedule: 3 days in office, Tuesday–Thursday

About the role

The Payroll Specialist processes payroll accurately and timely for multiple pay groups while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This position serves as the primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries and maintains payroll records, prepares reports, supports audits, and assists with payroll tax filings and year-end activities. The Payroll Specialist partners closely with Human Resources and Finance to ensure payroll processes are efficient, accurate, and compliant.

Responsibilities

• Process and review bi-weekly, semi-monthly, and monthly payrolls.
• Review and validate data affecting payroll, including timesheet discrepancies and wage calculations.
• Verify employee information including direct deposit and tax forms.
• Prepare payroll reports for finance, HR, and leadership teams.
• Audit payroll transactions and identify discrepancies or process improvements.
• Maintain employee payroll records and ensure confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Process wage garnishments and liens in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
• Research, analyze, and resolve payroll-related issues and inquiries.
• Communicate with employees and other departments professionally to answer questions and resolve problems.
• Assist with quarterly payroll tax filings and year-end reporting, including Forms W-2.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and company payroll policies.
• Establish payroll tax accounts and configure state tax codes within UKG while maintaining knowledge of applicable state payroll regulations.
• Coordinate with HR and Finance departments on payroll changes and updates.
• Develop and document payroll procedures and internal controls.
• Perform other tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate's degree required; Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• 3+ years of payroll processing experience.
• Ability to quickly learn and utilize necessary software programs, preferably UKG Ready.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and basic data analysis functions.
• Ability to multi-task and work under tight deadlines with flexibility.
• Excellent customer service skills, including timely and professional communication with employees and managers regarding payroll matters.
• Strong attention to detail, well-developed written and verbal communication skills, ability to take initiative, and excellent time management and prioritization abilities.

Pay

$60,000 - $65,000 / Annually

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401(k)