What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Payroll Specialist position at LHH?
Position Summary
The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for overseeing and executing accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for a multi‑state employee population. This role serves as a subject matter expert in payroll operations, provides guidance on complex payroll matters, ensures regulatory compliance, and partners closely with HR, Finance, and external vendors to support efficient payroll processes.
Key Responsibilities
Payroll Processing & Oversight
- Process and review full‑cycle payroll for salaried and hourly employees across multiple states
- Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, bonuses, commissions, and retroactive adjustments
- Review and approve payroll changes, deductions, garnishments, and benefits withholdings
- Serve as senior point of contact for complex payroll issues and escalations
Compliance & Reporting
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws
- Manage payroll tax filings, reconciliations, and year‑end activities including W‑2s and audits
- Partner with tax and payroll vendors to resolve discrepancies and inquiries
- Maintain strong internal controls and audit documentation
Systems & Process Improvement
- Maintain and optimize payroll systems and integrations with HRIS and timekeeping platforms
- Identify opportunities for process improvements, automation, and efficiency
- Assist with system upgrades, testing, and implementations as needed
Cross‑Functional Support
- Collaborate with HR on new hires, terminations, leaves of absence, and benefits changes
- Support Finance with payroll reconciliations, accruals, and reporting
- Provide training and guidance to junior payroll team members and stakeholders
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or a related field
- 7 years of payroll experience, including multi‑state processing
- Strong knowledge of payroll compliance, taxation, and wage laws
- Experience with payroll systems (ADP, Workday, UKG, Paycor, or similar)
- Advanced Excel skills and strong attention to detail
Preferred Qualifications
- CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) certification preferred
- Experience supporting complex payroll environments (manufacturing, union, or multi‑entity)
- Prior experience in a senior‑level or lead payroll role
Benefits & Compensation
- Competitive base salary
- Annual bonus opportunity (if applicable)
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Career development and advancement opportunities
Compliance & Equal Opportunity Statement
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to:
https://www.lhh.com/us/en/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements.