Senior Payroll Specialist

Vedder's Chicago office is seeking a Senior Payroll Specialist. Under the direct supervision of the Payroll Manager, the Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for coordinating and executing day-to-day payroll operations for domestic and international offices within a fast-paced law firm environment. This role requires the ability to manage and process multiple payrolls simultaneously across varying frequencies and jurisdictions, while maintaining a high level of accuracy, compliance, and confidentiality.The Senior Payroll Specialist will take a lead role in payroll operations, demonstrating initiative, ownership, and proactive problem-solving. The position requires the ability to remain flexible, organized, and solutions-focused, maintaining a positive and professional attitude during high-volume periods, tight deadlines, and complex payroll cycles. Responsibilities include payroll processing, reporting, time and attendance administration, audit support, and documentation of procedures, while ensuring all payroll activities are completed timely and in compliance with applicable regulations.As a Senior Payroll Specialist, your duties will include but not be limited to:Manage workflow and prioritize competing deadlines across multiple payroll cycles, ensuring timely and accurate processingProcess and validate payroll transactions including new hires, separations, pay adjustments, and retroactive changesSimultaneously process multiple payroll groups (bi-weekly, semi-monthly, monthly and international) with precision and consistencyReconcile payroll reports to source data and perform detailed audits prior to final transmissionServe as a primary escalation point for payroll inquiries, providing timely resolution with a high level of professionalismEnsure compliance with federal, state, local, and international payroll regulations and wage and hour lawsPartner with Payroll Manager and Accounting to resolve discrepancies and support general ledger reconciliationGenerate and analyze ad hoc payroll reports to support business needs and decision-makingProcess manual and off-cycle payments, including bank wire requests, with proper controls and approvalsMaintain accurate and complete employee payroll records and documentationUphold strict confidentiality and data security standards at all timesIdentify process improvement opportunities and take initiative to implement enhancements to payroll workflows and controlsDevelop, update, and maintain audit-ready documentation, procedures, and internal controlsLead and/or support departmental projects, system updates, and auditsFacilitate internal and external audits by preparing and providing required documentationDemonstrate leadership behaviors, including mentoring junior staff and driving accountability within payroll operationsSkills & Competencies:Strong working knowledge of payroll best practices and multi-state/international regulationsProven ability to multitask and effectively manage multiple payrolls and deadlines simultaneouslyDemonstrated leadership skills with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindsetStrong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilitiesAbility to maintain a calm, positive, and professional attitude during high-pressure and peak processing periodsHigh level of accuracy, attention to detail, and commitment to qualityEffective organizational and time management skills in a deadline-driven environmentStrong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and integritySelf-starter with the ability to work independently and take ownership of responsibilitiesStrong follow-through and accountability on deliverablesFlexibility to adjust hours to meet operating needsAdvanced Excel skills (XLOOKUP, VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, SUMIFS, etc.) requiredExperience processing multiple Payroll GroupsEffective organization and time management skills with the ability to work under pressure and adhere to project deadlinesHigh degree of initiative, confidentiality, mature judgement and discretionStrong sense of urgency, accountability and result orientedAbility to analyze, interpret, and respond to complex payroll dataStrong sense of urgency and results orientationCollaborative team player who is adaptable, approachable, and flexibleQualifications & Required Experience:Bachelor’s degree preferredMinimum of 5-7 years of payroll experience requiredExperience processing multi-state and international payrolls requiredProven experience managing multiple payroll groups and frequencies simultaneouslyExperience working in a professional services or law firm environment preferredPrior Processing experience with UKG is RequiredInternational payroll experience strongly preferredFPC or CPP a plusComputer Skills:To perform this job successfully, an individual must be proficient in the following software:Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and working knowledge of Word and Outlook requiredExperience and processing knowledge with UKG/HRIS systems requiredExperience with timekeeping systems (e.g., Workforce Management) preferredCompensation Range: $70,000/yr. to $93,000/yr.At Vedder, we believe in recognizing and rewarding our employees' contributions. Our comprehensive Total Rewards Package includes:Competitive Salary: We offer a competitive base salary commensurate with skills and experience. Bonus Program: Discretionary annual bonus program. Retirement Planning: Discretionary profit sharing and 401(k) matching to help you plan for your future. Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans, along with optional health savings and flexible spending accounts, firm-paid Life and Disability benefits, and wellness programs to support your overall well-being. Paid Time Off: Competitive time off package including vacation days, paid holidays, sick time and personal days. Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career growth through firm provided training programs. Employee Recognition: Anniversary and Vedder Praise Programs to celebrate your achievements and milestones. Work-Life Balance: Hybrid work model and family-friendly policies. Additional Perks: Employee discount program, pre-tax commuter benefits, back up child & elder care, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), fitness center discounts and more. Join Vedder and be part of a team that values hard work and dedication!Equal Employment OpportunityVedder Price P.C. is an equal opportunity employer. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability (where applicant is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations), medical condition, protected veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We participate in E-verify.Applicants who are interested in applying for a position and require special assistance or an accommodation during the process due to a disability should contact the Vedder Recruiting Team at recruiting@vedder.com