Payroll Specialist III

Payroll Specialist IIIJob SummaryThe Payroll Specialist III is a senior‐level payroll professional responsible for processing complex, high‐volume payrolls with a high degree of accuracy and compliance. This role supports multi‐state payroll operations within a staffing agency environment, ensuring timely and accurate payment for contractors and internal employees. The Payroll Specialist III serves as a subject‐matter expert, resolves escalated payroll issues, supports audits and compliance efforts, and partners closely with Payroll Leadership, HR, Finance, and Client Services.Primary ResponsibilitiesProcess weekly, bi‐weekly, and/or special payrolls for a large population of W‐2 and/or 1099 contractors and internal employees across multiple statesReview and validate time entry, pay rates, commissions, bonuses, adjustments, and retroactive paymentsManage complex payroll transactions including off‐cycle payments, corrections, stop payments, reversals, and reissuesAdminister wage garnishments, tax levies, child support orders, and other court‐ordered deductionsEnsure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and staffing‐specific pay requirementsPartner with Tax, HR, and Finance teams to research and resolve payroll discrepancies and compliance issuesServe as an escalation point for complex payroll inquiries from employees, contractors, internal stakeholders, and clientsSupport payroll audits (internal and external) by preparing documentation and responding to audit requestsAssist with onboarding and termination payroll activities, including final pay calculations and compliance requirementsReview payroll reports for accuracy, identify trends or issues, and recommend process improvementsMaintain confidentiality and data integrity of payroll and employee informationProvide guidance and informal mentoring to Payroll Specialist I and II team members as neededParticipate in payroll system enhancements, testing, and implementation of new processes or toolsQualifications & Experience RequirementsRequired Qualifications:Minimum of 5+ years of progressive payroll experience, preferably within a staffing agency or high‐volume payroll environmentDemonstrated experience processing multi‐state payroll with a strong understanding of payroll compliance requirementsHands‐on experience with payroll systems (e.g., ADP, UKG, Workday, Paychex, or similar platforms)Strong working knowledge of wage garnishments, tax withholdings, and payroll regulationsAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (including lookups, reconciliations, and data analysis)Excellent attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast‐paced environmentStrong problem‐solving skills and ability to independently resolve complex payroll issuesProven ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretionPreferred Qualifications:Workday experienceExperience supporting payroll for contractors, consultants, or temporary employeesCertified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC)Experience partnering with payroll tax teams or supporting payroll tax filings and reconciliationsPrior involvement in payroll audits or system implementationsKey CompetenciesPayroll compliance expertiseAnalytical and detail‐oriented mindsetStrong organizational and time‐management skillsClear, professional communication skillsAbility to work independently while collaborating effectively across teamsCustomer‐service orientation with confidence handling escalated issues