Payroll Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

The Payroll Specialist plays a vital role in supporting small and mid-sized business clients by ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll. This position involves handling multi-client payroll, maintaining compliance with federal and state payroll regulations, coordinating benefits deductions, and serving as a key administrative liaison between clients and their employees. The ideal candidate has strong attention to detail, exceptional organizational skills, and a service-oriented mindset. HR experience is strongly preferred, especially in onboarding and employee administration, as this role often overlaps with essential HR functions.

Payroll Processing

• Manage full-cycle payroll for multiple clients on weekly, biweekly, and monthly schedules using platforms such as Gusto, ADP, or QuickBooks Payroll.

• Verify timecards, calculate wages, bonuses, commissions, deductions, and benefits contributions.

• Prepare and review payroll reports, ensuring accuracy and resolving discrepancies.

• Maintain payroll records and audit trails for all client payroll transactions.

Tax Compliance

• Calculate and remit federal, state, and local payroll taxes, ensuring compliance with applicable laws.

• Support preparation and filing of W-2s, 1099s, and quarterly payroll tax returns.

• Stay up to date on changes to payroll legislation, wage and hour laws, and reporting requirements.

Client Service & Communication

• Serve as the first point of contact for client payroll inquiries, delivering prompt and professional support.

• Collaborate with clients to onboard new employees, process pay rate changes, or apply benefit adjustments.

• Educate clients on payroll system best practices and assist with troubleshooting.

Process Management & Documentation

• Maintain up-to-date documentation of client payroll policies, schedules, and procedures.

• Set up and manage payroll software integrations and ensure data accuracy across platforms.

• Support internal CAS team in financial reporting where payroll data is relevant.

Required:

• 2+ years of experience in payroll administration, preferably in a multi-client or outsourced service environment.

• Proficiency in payroll systems (e.g., Gusto, ADP, QuickBooks Online Payroll).

• Familiarity with federal and Alabama payroll tax regulations.

• High attention to detail, accuracy, and confidentiality.

• Strong communication and organizational skills.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple client payrolls simultaneously.

Preferred:

• Human Resources experience , particularly in onboarding, benefits administration, employee file management, or HR compliance.

• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or other HR-related certification (e.g., PHR, SPHR).

• Experience in a CPA firm or client accounting services environment.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Human Resources, Business Administration , or related field.

• Certification such as FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification) or CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) .

• Accuracy & Compliance-Oriented Thinking

• Client Service & Relationship Management

• Time Management & Task Prioritization

• Ethical Judgment & Discretion

• Payroll System Fluency (Gusto, ADP, QuickBooks, Accounting CS)

• Team Collaboration & Flexibility

Work Environment

• Regular collaboration with accounting, tax, and CAS team members.

• Exposure to various industries including professional services, healthcare, and retail.