Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist

Job Summary

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely administration of payroll for more than 2,300 employees across JCK Restaurants and affiliated entities. This position serves as a payroll subject matter expert and ensures compliance with applicable federal, state, and local wage and hour laws while maintaining the highest level of confidentiality and accuracy.

The ideal candidate has experience processing payroll in a high-volume, fast-paced environment and is comfortable managing complex payroll transactions, auditing data, and independently resolving payroll issues.

Key Responsibilities

• Process payroll transactions accurately and timely in accordance with company policies and applicable laws.
• Administer termination pay calculations, including final wages and accrued benefit payouts.
• Review and audit timekeeping records, earnings, deductions, and payroll changes for accuracy.
• Verify and process timesheets with appropriate coding and approvals.
• Generate, reconcile, and analyze payroll reports and supporting documentation.
• Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies and employee inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
• Monitor compliance with wage and hour laws, payroll tax requirements, and internal controls.
• Maintain payroll records and documentation in accordance with company policies and record retention requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, efficiency, and accuracy.

Qualifications
Required Education

• High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education

• Associate's degree in accounting, Business, or a related field.

Required Experience

• Minimum of three years of payroll administration experience.
• Experience processing payroll in a high-volume environment.
• Strong understanding of payroll practices and wage and hour compliance.
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Experience

• Experience using UKG Pro.
• Experience supporting multiple legal entities or payroll groups.
• Experience in a high-turnover workforce environment.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation or willingness to pursue certification.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to independently prioritize work and manage competing deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  Ability to handle highly confidential information with professionalism and integrity.
• Strong customer service mindset and commitment to supporting employees and leaders.
• Ability to identify process improvements and contribute to operational efficiency.