Payroll Specialist - AP Rochester

AP Professionals has partnered with a technology company in Rochester to find a Payroll Specialist. The Payroll Specialist will collaborate with HR and Finance to process weekly US payroll, assist with quarterly tax filings, monitor state legislation, handle payroll reconciliations, manage state tax registrations, and support year-end processes. Strong attention to detail, numeracy skills, and experience in optimizing payroll systems are essential. This position is fully onsite.

Responsibilities

• Collecting, preparing, and inputting payroll data for salaried and hourly employees across various jurisdictions, ensuring accurate processing throughout the full payroll cycle, including year-end activities.
• Monitoring federal and state income tax, SUI, and social security compliance, staying updated on legislative changes.
• Coordinating with third-party payroll providers for processing and issue resolution.
• Ensuring timely and accurate employee payments in compliance with state laws and requirements.
• Reviewing payroll data for accuracy, investigating discrepancies, and resolving root causes.
• Preparing and filing year-end tax documents and completing quarterly/year-end reconciliations.
• Administering employee benefit programs to ensure accurate deductions, including health benefits and 401(k).
• Calculating and processing manual or off-cycle payments when necessary.
• Responding to payroll-related inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
• Preparing audit and summary reports, including earnings, taxes, deductions, and non-taxable wages.
• Managing payroll journal entries and GL account reporting.
• Maintaining detailed payroll records for audit purposes.
• Identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance payroll efficiency.

Education

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or related field.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation or equivalent from APA/Payroll Org.

Experience

• At least 5 years of payroll experience, preferably in a multi-jurisdictional setting.
• Experience working with third-party payroll providers, particularly Paychex or ADP Workforce Now.
• Background in manufacturing is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics

• Strong knowledge of audits, multi-state income tax forms, health benefits programs, sick pay, retirement plans, and related payroll processes.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive matters professionally, confidentially, and promptly.
• Team player with excellent communication and relationship-building skills, fostering strong partnerships with key stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with advanced Excel capabilities including VLOOKUP, pivot tables, data analysis, and manipulation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly adaptable with critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.