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Payroll Specialist Job Description

What Does a Payroll Specialist Do?

Payroll specialists are responsible for overseeing and managing the payroll process for an organization. They are responsible for tasks such as calculating wages and deductions, processing payments, preparing payroll reports, and filing payroll taxes.

Payroll Specialist Job Description Example

Seattle Accounting Solutions is looking for an experienced payroll specialist to join its team! We are a thriving accounting firm known for our commitment to exceptional service, and we are looking for someone who can help us take our payroll processes to the next level. Our ideal candidate will be highly competent in payroll and benefit administration, be organized and detail-oriented, and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Manage all payroll functions including processing payroll, deductions, and taxes
Prepare payroll journals and other related financial reports
Ensure the accuracy and integrity of all payroll data
Maintain employee records
Obtain, process, and maintain all payroll and relevant tax documentation
Ensure that payroll and related processes are compliant with relevant laws and regulations
Communicate with employees regarding payroll and benefits information

Work Hours and Benefits:

This position requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday during normal business hours. We offer competitive salary and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) and more.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field preferred
A minimum of two years of experience in payroll and benefits administration
Knowledge of payroll laws and regulations
Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel

Training and Education:

We offer in-house training and development to all our employees. We also offer ample opportunities for continuing education and career growth.

If you are an experienced, organized and detail-oriented payroll specialist, and you are ready to take on a new challenge, then we want to hear from you! Join us in our mission to deliver exceptional accounting services to our clients. Please submit your application today.

What to Include on a Payroll Specialist Resume or Job Posting

Common payroll specialist responsibilities

Calculating and processing payroll for employees
Reconciling payroll accounts and preparing payroll reports
Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations
Maintaining employee records and updating payroll information
Processing employee deductions, such as taxes, benefits, and garnishments
Responding to employee inquiries regarding payroll issues
Processing new hires, terminations, and other changes in employee status
Generating and distributing paychecks and direct deposits
Preparing and filing payroll tax returns
Auditing payroll records for accuracy and completeness

Qualities & traits

Attention to Detail: Payroll specialists must be detail-oriented and have the ability to accurately process payroll data.
Organization: Payroll specialists must be able to organize and manage large amounts of data in an efficient and effective manner.
Analytical Skills: Payroll specialists must have strong analytical skills to be able to identify discrepancies in payroll data.
Communication: Payroll specialists must be able to communicate effectively with both internal and external stakeholders.
Problem-Solving: Payroll specialists must be able to troubleshoot issues and find solutions quickly and efficiently.
Flexibility: Payroll specialists must be able to adapt to changing regulations and policies.
Time Management: Payroll specialists must be able to manage their time effectively in order to meet deadlines.

What a typical day looks like for a payroll specialist

A payroll specialist would typically plan, track, and process payroll information on a daily basis. This includes setting up payroll deductions, issuing and reconciling payroll checks, calculating taxable wages, ensuring compliance with regulations, managing employer and employee tax payments, updating employee information, and filing reports with relevant governmental agencies. They would also provide customer service to respond to and solve payroll inquiries in a timely and accurate manner, troubleshoot and fix payroll errors, and stay informed of changes in payroll strategies and regulations.

Compatible jobs and work history

Payroll specialists play a key role in any business or organization. They are responsible for accurately calculating and processing payments for employees, preparing and filing payroll taxes, and maintaining accurate records of payroll activity. While experience as a payroll specialist is preferred, there are many other roles and industries that may be compatible with becoming a payroll specialist. These include accounting and finance roles, customer service positions, and human resources jobs.

Here is a list of five compatible job titles:

Bookkeeper
Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk
Human Resources Administrator
Benefit Coordinator
Tax Accountant
Financial Analyst
Customer Service Representative
Data Entry Clerk
Administrative Assistant
Office Manager

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