Payroll Specialist

About the Role

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Payroll Specialist I to join our team. In this role, you will lead the accurate and timely processing of multi-state payrolls, ensure compliance with tax and labor regulations, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to create a seamless employee payroll experience. You will support audits, enhance processes, and be a reliable resource for payroll inquiries, requiring strong analytical skills and a commitment to confidentiality.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Processing & Compliance

• Execute biweekly and off-cycle payrolls in accordance with payroll calendars and organizational policies.
• Use standardized checklists to ensure accurate payroll execution and full compliance documentation.
• Maintain audit-ready payroll records and ensure accurate tax filings in line with federal, state, and local timelines.
• Collaborate with HR and Benefits to correctly process new hires, terminations, deductions, and variable compensation.
• Review timecards, resolve discrepancies, and escalate payroll issues as appropriate.

Data Integrity & Reporting

• Reconcile Paid Time Off (PTO) balances and maintain accurate accruals.
• Administer the Points and Attendance (PA) program with supervisors to ensure compliance.
• Provide payroll data and reporting to support HR and Finance functions.
• Respond to inquiries including garnishments, verifications of employment, unemployment claims, and other requests.
• Participate in testing and deploying system enhancements in payroll or HRIS platforms.

Auditing & Process Improvement

• Conduct regular audits to identify payroll errors and compliance risks.
• Prepare documentation for internal and external audits.
• Identify opportunities to streamline payroll processes and improve efficiency.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of payroll regulations and standards; pursue continuous learning in this area.

Collaboration & Accountability

• Partner with HR, Benefits, and Operations to ensure payroll accuracy and alignment with company policies.
• Support site leaders in timecard approvals and enforce timekeeping policies.
• Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with payroll legislation and trends.

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in accounting, HR, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 5 years of payroll processing experience in a multi-state and/or multi-FEIN environment.
• Minimum 2 years of leading and/or developing payroll process improvements
• Proficient with payroll systems (e.g., Paylocity, ADP, or UKG) and Microsoft Excel.
• Solid understanding of wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, and payroll best practices.
• Demonstrated discretion with sensitive data, strong attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred to support communication across diverse employee populations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing payroll tax filings and reconciliations.
• Payroll or HR certification (CPP, FPC, PHR, SHRM-CP) is a plus.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

AKG is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Management retains the discretion to add or change the duties of the position at any time.