Sr. Payroll Analyst - Hybrid

Position Description

Title: Sr. Payroll Analyst

Department: Human Resources

Immediate Supervisor: Director, Payroll & HR Systems

Status: Salaried Exempt

Position Purpose

The Sr. Payroll Analyst is responsible for the timely and accurate preparation and processing. Through ownership of full-cycle payroll processing using Dayforce, this role is critical to ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant payroll operations across the organization.

Principle Accountabilities

• Oversee full-cycle payroll processing for the U.S. and/or Canadian employee population, including both hourly and salaried staff.
• Ensure payroll operations comply with all applicable U.S. and Canadian federal, state, provincial, and local regulations, including tax filings, garnishments, and wage/hour laws.
• Develop, prepare, analyze, and reconcile payroll reports and metrics for Finance, HR, and audit purposes.
• Manage the setup and maintenance of multi-state tax registrations to ensure compliance and accuracy.
• Continuously identify and implement process improvements to streamline payroll operations and optimize system functionality.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and best practices for payroll processing.
• Leverage data and system expertise to troubleshoot complex payroll issues and drive effective resolutions.
• Act as a confidential liaison between Human Resources and Finance on all payroll-related matters.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with HR, Finance, Benefits, and IT to proactively identify issues and deliver scalable solutions.
• Lead monthly, quarterly, and year-end payroll activities, including W-2/T-4 preparation, tax reconciliations, and system updates.
• Generate payroll and management reports, support Finance with journal entries and payroll tax reconciliations.
• Configure and maintain payroll-related general ledger settings in Dayforce to ensure accurate payroll accounting and financial integration.
• Perform other related duties and special projects assigned by leadership.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field strongly preferred.
• 4–7 years of hands-on, full-cycle payroll experience.
• At least two years of experience using Dayforce payroll system.
• Proven ability to proactively identify issues and drive effective, scalable solutions.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll reporting tools.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and, when needed, lead a team or project group.
• Advanced analytical skills with the ability to interpret and resolve complex technical and business challenges.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, with strong problem-solving capabilities.
• Deep understanding of U.S. and/or payroll laws and regulations, including FLSA, overtime, and statutory deductions.
• Strong payroll expertise combined with a solution-driven mindset focused on continuous process and system improvement.
• Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.