What are the responsibilities and job description for the Payroll Specialist position at Charles River Center?
Position Title: Payroll Specialist
Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Reports To: Controller
Location: Needham, MA (On-site for first 6 months; hybrid schedule with one remote day per week thereafter)
Compensation: $65,000 – $75,000 annually
Position Overview
The Payroll Specialist is a key member of the Business Office, responsible for overseeing and managing the organization’s payroll functions. This role ensures that pay is processed accurately, on time, and in compliance with all financial policies and government regulations. The Payroll Specialist will play a critical role in payroll administration and contribute to the overall financial health of the organization.
The ideal candidate will be highly organized, detail-oriented, and experienced in financial operations—preferably within the human services sector.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Oversight & Accounting Operations
Oversee payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with all applicable laws and policies.
Ensure proper processing of payroll deductions for taxes, benefits, charitable contributions, and other authorized deductions.
Accurately process payroll updates, including new hires, terminations, and pay rate changes.
Maintain, reconcile, and transmit retirement plan contributions.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour regulations.
Facilitate audits by providing records and documentation to auditors.
Identify and recommend updates to payroll software, systems, and procedures.
Reconcile payroll to the general ledger and monthly bank statements.
Issue or reissue physical/replacement checks or direct deposits due to payroll errors or employee separation.
Record and process federal and state payroll tax deposits.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Financial Analysis & Reporting
Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports of payroll transactions.
Qualifications & Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources or related field.
- Minimum of 2 years of payroll processing experience, preferably in the human services sector.
- Proficiency in payroll systems. accounting software, and financial reporting tools.
- Experience with state agency billing systems and compliance requirements (a plus)
- Ability to analyze financial data, identify trends, and provide strategic financial insights.
- Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with internal teams and external auditors.
Additional Requirements
- Must be able to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment in financial matters.
- Experience with the HRIS Paycom preferred.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Salary : $65,000 - $75,000