Payroll Coordinator/Specialist

Job Title: Payroll Coordinator/Specialist
Location: Washington, DC
Organization: Unity Health Care
Employment Type: Full-Time

About Unity Health Care

Unity Health Care is committed to providing accessible, high-quality, comprehensive healthcare to the Washington, DC community. Our team works collaboratively to support the health and well-being of the diverse communities we serve while maintaining efficient and effective organizational operations.

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Payroll Manager, the Payroll Coordinator/Specialist supports the accurate and timely administration of payroll operations while maintaining compliance with organizational policies and applicable federal and state regulations.

The position is responsible for monitoring time and attendance, assisting with bi-weekly payroll processing, performing payroll calculations and reconciliations, maintaining accurate payroll records, responding to employee inquiries, and supporting payroll reporting and year-end activities. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, numerically proficient, and committed to maintaining confidentiality and accuracy in all payroll-related matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and maintain activity in the Time and Attendance System and ensure supervisors approve bi-weekly timesheets.
• Review timesheet entries and process necessary time adjustments.
• Assist with reviewing and processing bi-weekly payroll, including terminations, retirements, reclassifications, promotions, and demotions.
• Calculate wages, benefits, retroactive pay, payroll corrections, and other payroll-related adjustments.
• Prepare and process paychecks, cash deposits, wires, and manual checks as needed.
• Maintain accurate payroll records, documentation, and transaction files.
• Respond to payroll-related inquiries and research and resolve employee concerns.
• Perform account balance and payroll reconciliations.
• Prepare financial, payroll, and periodic management reports.
• Conduct payroll audits before and after payroll completion and ensure established internal controls are followed.
• Assist with year-end payroll processing and reconciliation of W-2s and 1099-Rs.
• Ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal payroll policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Process routine interdepartmental reports according to established schedules.
• Maintain all payroll files and ensure payroll information is properly organized and secured.
• Assist with the development and updating of payroll forms and administrative procedures.
• Provide information and assistance regarding payroll and accounting-related matters to employees and other stakeholders.
• Participate in cross-training and provide support for other fiscal functions as needed.
• Brief new employees on Unity’s personnel and payroll policies and procedures and assist with orientation programs.
• Conduct research and assist with special projects as assigned.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of personnel information and payroll records.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate degree with major coursework in Accounting, Business, or a related field preferred; equivalent education, training, or experience may be considered.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working in payroll or a similar role.
• Working knowledge of basic accounting principles and payroll practices.
• Knowledge of HRIS/payroll software; ADP experience preferred.
• Strong numerical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Strong computer and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under stress and time pressures.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive personnel and payroll information.

Why Join Unity?

• Contribute to the operations of a mission-driven healthcare organization serving the Washington, DC community.
• Work collaboratively with Human Resources, Finance, and other departments.
• Develop and strengthen expertise in payroll administration, HRIS systems, and compliance.
• Gain exposure to a broad range of payroll functions and financial processes.
• Be part of a team committed to accuracy, service, and supporting Unity’s employees and organizational mission.