Payroll Specialist

[Position] Payroll Specialist [About Our Client] Manufacturing [Job Summary] General Purpose: The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing and administering accurate bi-weekly payroll for hourly and salaried employees while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and company regulations. This position serves as the primary payroll subject matter expert in the facility and works closely with Human Resources, Finance, supervisors, and employees to resolve payroll-related issues, maintain records, and ensure timely payroll processing. This role requires a high level of confidentiality, attention to detail, analytical ability, and knowledge of payroll regulations. [Job Description] - Process bi-weekly payroll accurately and within established deadlines. - Review employee time records, attendance data, payroll adjustments, and wage information for completeness and accuracy. - Maintain employee payroll records, including compensation changes, deductions, direct deposit information, tax withholding elections, and leave balances. - Audit payroll data and investigate discrepancies related to hours worked, earnings, deductions, and leave usage. - Ensure proper processing of taxes, benefits, garnishments, charitable contributions, and other payroll deductions. - Coordinate with Human Resources and department leaders to validate payroll transactions related to new hires, transfers, promotions, leaves of absence, and terminations. - Process final paychecks and off-cycle payroll transactions as required. - Assist in payroll reconciliations and support Finance with payroll-related reporting and general ledger activities. - Generate payroll reports and provide payroll-related metrics as requested by management. - Maintain compliance with applicable federal, state, and local wage and hour laws and payroll regulations. - Respond to employee payroll inquiries and resolve issues in a professional and timely manner. - Support internal and external payroll audits by preparing documentation and reports. - Maintain confidentiality of employee compensation and personal information. - Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, accuracy, and efficiency. - Provide guidance and training to supervisors and timekeepers regarding payroll procedures and timekeeping practices. - Perform other duties as assigned. Requirements Essential Functions: - Regular and reliable attendance. - Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of payroll and employee information. - Ability to review payroll data accurately and identify discrepancies. - Ability to communicate effectively with employees, supervisors, Human Resources, Finance, and external agencies. - Ability to interpret and apply payroll policies and procedures. - Ability to prioritize multiple tasks while meeting strict payroll deadlines. - Ability to perform detailed analytical work with a high degree of accuracy. - Ability to operate payroll, HRIS, and Microsoft Office…