Payroll Specialist

Critical Project Services - Dallas, TX

Full-time - Entry Level

Dallas, TX

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely processing of employee payroll and related benefits. This role requires a strong understanding of payroll processes, tax regulations, and labor laws, along with the ability to maintain accurate payroll records and resolve payroll-related issues. The ideal candidate will demonstrate professionalism, discretion, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly/monthly payroll, ensuring accurate and timely payment to all employees.
• Review and verify timesheets, attendance records, and employee hours for accuracy.
• Calculate and ensure proper withholding for federal, state, and local taxes, as well as other deductions.
• Manage employee benefit deductions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with plan guidelines.
• Reconcile payroll reports and accounts to align payroll data with general ledger entries.
• Generate and submit payroll-related reports, including year-end forms (W-2, 1099, etc.).
• Stay updated on payroll laws and regulations to ensure compliance in processing.
• Serve as the point of contact for employee payroll-related inquiries and concerns.
• Maintain confidential and accurate employee payroll records and documentation.
• Assist with internal and external payroll audits, providing necessary documentation.
• Support maintenance and updates of payroll software and systems.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or certification in accounting, finance, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in payroll processing, preferably within a relevant industry.
• Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Paychex, QuickBooks) and Microsoft Excel; experience with HRIS systems is a plus.
• Strong understanding of payroll procedures, tax laws, and benefits administration.
• Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail in processing payroll and maintaining records.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for explaining payroll-related information to employees.
• Strong analytical skills to resolve payroll discrepancies or issues promptly.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with integrity and discretion.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines.
• Certification as a Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or similar credential is preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with unionized workforce payroll (if applicable).
• Familiarity with multi-state payroll processing and compliance.

Benefits

• Health insurance