Payroll Specialist

We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Payroll Specialist to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring accurate and timely processing of payroll while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of payroll systems, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive information with integrity. This position plays a critical role in supporting our employees and ensuring smooth payroll operations across the organization.

Position location: Deerfield, IL – position is Hybrid (On-site Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) 

What you will be doing:

• Independently manage the bi-weekly payroll process across diverse employee groups (hourly, salary, salary non-exempt).
• Review/Audit employee payroll data residing in Workday and ADP. Escalate data discrepancies as needed, specifically as they relate to payroll, benefits, and 401k transactions.
• Ensure accurate processing, documentation, and reconciliation of payroll including balancing hours processed in the WFM/UKG timekeeping system.
• Process off-cycle payments and periodic payments for hourly and salary associates, including bonus processing and other unscheduled payments.
• Act as the primary contact for the local HR team and site timekeepers for payroll-related questions and issue resolution.
• Address and resolve employee inquiries regarding paychecks and payroll reporting, escalating issues as needed.
• Provide documentation and support for internal and external audits.
• Assist in quarterly tax processing and annual year-end W2 balancing and processing.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive employee information.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement to enhance payroll efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.
• Serve on cross departmental teams and support new procedures/projects and improvements due to business changes, operational requirements, strategic initiatives, and legal requirements.