Sr. Payroll Specialist

Job Highlights

• This position can be located in either Pittsburgh, PA or Shelton, CT

Long Description

• Process accurate and timely payroll for multiple entities (using automated payroll system where applicable) including verification of time entries, new hires, rehires, terminations, tax information, benefit deductions, awards, leave of absence, relocation reimbursements, bonuses, fringe benefits, garnishments, child support withholding, auditing, employee master changes while ensuring compliance with each entity's unique FEIN
• Process manual checks and voids in a timely manner
• Handle special payroll situations, such as leave of absence and terminations for multiple business units
• Stay current on changes to union contracts and CBA-related regulations, ensuring ongoing compliance with new or amended agreements
• Oversee and file tax reports for multiple FEINs, including federal, state, and local taxes
• Ensure compliance with federal and state tax laws, including correct withholding rates and timely deposits for each FEIN
• Ensure compliance with multi-state payroll tax regulations for employees working in various jurisdictions
• Data validation and review: Review and validate interfaced data from SuccessFactor to UKG Pro payroll system. Audit assigned payrolls for accuracy and determine appropriate corrective action. Coordinate and process all incoming data from various sources (depts, field offices, automated systems)
• Troubleshoot and resolve any payroll system issues or discrepancies related to processing for multiple entities
• Reconciliation activities: Reconcile and prepare check requests and wire transfers for payroll liabilities (union dues, United Way, 401k contributions, etc.). Reconcile gross to net payroll; analyze, prepare and reconcile journal entries for upload into computerized accounting system
• Provide employees with explanations of payroll-related matters, including benefits deductions, pay statements, and tax withholdings
• Generate and distribute payroll-related reports to finance and HR departments
• Prepare month-end and year-end reports for financial reporting and auditing purposes for each business unit
• Suggest and implement process improvements to streamline payroll operations and ensure continued accuracy and efficiency
• Ensure accurate and timely year end processing (W-2 and/or T4) including reconciliation of tax issues for 941s, 940s, and state unemployment filings

Requirements

• 5-10 years of experience in payroll processing from start to finish, preferably in a large multi-entity multi-state, union environment
• Experience with multiple FEINs, including managing payroll for different entities with varying tax requirements
• Strong understanding of payroll compliance, including federal and state labor laws, multi-state tax regulations, and wage and hour laws
• Strong understanding of collective bargaining agreements and payroll compliance within unionized workforces
•  Experience with payroll software systems (Ultimate Software or similar platforms)
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, intermediate in other MS Office programs
• Knowledge of basic accounting methods and principles
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in processing payroll for multiple entities
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and work with sensitive financial and personal data
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) preferred but not required