Payroll Specialist

We are looking for a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to support payroll and accounts payable operations in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. This Contract to hire position offers the opportunity to manage critical financial processes that serve faculty, staff, student employees, and external vendors. The role is fully onsite and blends payroll administration with accounts payable coordination, requiring accuracy, discretion, and strong service skills.Responsibilities:• Manage end-to-end biweekly payroll for faculty, staff, and student employees, ensuring wages are calculated and issued on schedule.• Review payroll records for accuracy, investigate inconsistencies, and correct issues before final processing.• Apply federal, state, and institutional payroll guidelines to maintain compliance across all payroll activities.• Respond to payroll-related questions from employees and departments while partnering with Human Resources, Finance, and academic teams.• Prepare payroll-related reports and assist with year-end activities to support accurate recordkeeping and reporting.• Process vendor invoices by reviewing documentation, assigning proper coding, and entering payments into the accounting system.• Issue payments through approved methods such as checks and wire transfers while helping maintain positive vendor relationships.• Reconcile vendor statements, research outstanding items, and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.• Organize and maintain accounts payable files and supporting documentation to ensure complete and accurate financial records.• Degree in Accounting, Business, Human Resources, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.• Experience handling full-cycle payroll processing with a strong understanding of payroll controls and deadlines.• Working knowledge of multi-state payroll practices and applicable compliance requirements.• Hands-on experience with ADP Workforce Now.• Background in accounts payable, including invoice entry, payment processing, and vendor reconciliation.• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage confidential information responsibly.• Effective customer service and communication skills when supporting employees, departments, and vendors.• Prior experience in higher education payroll or accounts payable environments is preferred.Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.