The Payroll Specialist plays a vital role in supporting small and mid-sized business clients by ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll. This position involves handling multi-client payroll, maintaining compliance with federal and state payroll regulations, coordinating benefits deductions, and serving as a key administrative liaison between clients and their employees. The ideal candidate has strong attention to detail, exceptional organizational skills, and a service-oriented mindset. HR experience is strongly preferred, especially in onboarding and employee administration, as this role often overlaps with essential HR functions.
Key Responsibilities
Payroll Processing
- Manage full-cycle payroll for multiple clients on weekly, biweekly, and monthly schedules using platforms such as Gusto, ADP, or QuickBooks Payroll.
- Verify timecards, calculate wages, bonuses, commissions, deductions, and benefits contributions.
- Prepare and review payroll reports, ensuring accuracy and resolving discrepancies.
- Maintain payroll records and audit trails for all client payroll transactions.
Tax Compliance
- Calculate and remit federal, state, and local payroll taxes, ensuring compliance with applicable laws.
- Support preparation and filing of W-2s, 1099s, and quarterly payroll tax returns.
- Stay up to date on changes to payroll legislation, wage and hour laws, and reporting requirements.
Client Service & Communication
- Serve as the first point of contact for client payroll inquiries, delivering prompt and professional support.
- Collaborate with clients to onboard new employees, process pay rate changes, or apply benefit adjustments.
- Educate clients on payroll system best practices and assist with troubleshooting.
Process Management & Documentation
- Maintain up-to-date documentation of client payroll policies, schedules, and procedures.
- Set up and manage payroll software integrations and ensure data accuracy across platforms.
- Support internal CAS team in financial reporting where payroll data is relevant.
Qualifications
Required:
- 2+ years of experience in payroll administration, preferably in a multi-client or outsourced service environment.
- Proficiency in payroll systems (e.g., Gusto, ADP, QuickBooks Online Payroll).
- Familiarity with federal and Alabama payroll tax regulations.
- High attention to detail, accuracy, and confidentiality.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple client payrolls simultaneously.
Preferred:
Human Resources experience, particularly in onboarding, benefits administration, employee file management, or HR compliance.
SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or other HR-related certification (e.g., PHR, SPHR).
- Experience in a CPA firm or client accounting services environment.
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
- Certification such as FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification) or CPP (Certified Payroll Professional).
Core Competencies
- Accuracy & Compliance-Oriented Thinking
- Client Service & Relationship Management
- Time Management & Task Prioritization
- Ethical Judgment & Discretion
- Payroll System Fluency (Gusto, ADP, QuickBooks, Accounting CS)
- Team Collaboration & Flexibility
Work Environment
- Regular collaboration with accounting, tax, and CAS team members.
- Exposure to various industries including professional services, healthcare, and retail.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive
consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex,
national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other
characteristic protected by law.
At Metcalf & Company LLC, our mission is clear: to help our clients in their pursuit to live and to protect their best financial life. We offer personalized financial strategies, comprehensive advisory, and unwavering support to help our clients navigate the complex financial landscape. We are not just accountants; we are partners in their pursuit of financial prosperity. We’re here to empower our clients, build trust, facilitate fulfillment, and help create a long lasting legacy.