Payroll Clerk

Position Summary

The Payroll Clerk is responsible for managing and processing multi-state payroll operations with precision and compliance. This role ensures that all employees are paid accurately and on time, while adhering to federal, state, and local regulations. The Payroll Clerk will also handle payroll inquiries, maintain confidential records, and support the broader payroll team with various payroll-related tasks and projects. This position plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of payroll systems and processes across the organization.

Who We Are: The McDonald Companies Vibe
At McDonald Companies, we’re not just a family-owned business—we’re a 140-year-old legacy of awesomeness! We’re all about growing together—with our people, our properties, and the communities we serve. Whether it’s building cool spaces, managing properties, or keeping the good times rolling at South Bay Marina, we’re here to make a difference. Oh, and we’ve got a logistics powerhouse, WSW Logistics, handling warehousing, trucking, and more. Ready to join a team that’s all about creating opportunities and long-lasting partnerships? Let’s do this!

Organizational Impact

The Payroll Clerk ensures timely and accurate payroll processing, supporting McDonald Companies' commitment to its employees’ financial wellbeing. By maintaining compliance with payroll regulations and resolving payroll issues efficiently, the Payroll Clerk plays a key role in fostering a positive working environment.

Why You'll Love Working With Us: Perks & Benefits

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive plans for you and your family (no spousal surcharge). Support with medical claims.

• Disability Coverage: Company-paid short- and long-term disability.

• Life Insurance: Company-paid $25,000 life insurance policy, with options for additional coverage.

• Wellness Plans: Optional coverage for critical illness and accidents.

• 401(k) Retirement Plan: 4% company match (5% contribution to maximize).

• Annual Clothing Reimbursement: $300 for safety-sensitive roles, plus free safety gear.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal challenges.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): 120 hours of vacation, 10 paid holidays, and floating holidays.

• Gym Membership: Monthly reimbursement for fitness-related expenses.

• Phone Perks: Monthly reimbursement for work-related calls and texts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Payroll Processing

  • Process multi-state payroll with 100% accuracy for weekly, bi-weekly, and semi-monthly pay cycles across various jurisdictions.

  • Calculate wages, overtime, deductions, garnishments, and 401(k) contributions according to established procedures.

• Compliance & Record Keeping

  • Maintain confidential payroll records and ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

  • Prepare and file quarterly and annual payroll tax reports, including 941s, state withholdings, and W-2s.

• Payroll Reconciliation & Inquiries

  • Reconcile payroll discrepancies and promptly resolve employee payroll inquiries with professionalism and efficiency.

  • Manage timekeeping systems, audit entries, and ensure data is imported into payroll software seamlessly.

• 401(k) Administration

  • Administer 401(k) enrollments, contributions, loans, and perform compliance testing, including nondiscrimination testing.

• Ad-Hoc Payroll Projects

  • Assist with ad-hoc payroll projects and make decisions under tight deadlines when necessary.

• Additional Responsibilities

  • Take on additional tasks as required to support the payroll team and broader HR function.

Required Qualifications

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in accounting or payroll processing.

• At least 2 years of experience specifically in payroll processing, with a demonstrated ability to handle end-to-end payroll functions.

• Extensive knowledge of multi-state payroll processing, including wage calculations, garnishments, deductions, and 401(k) contributions.

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail in payroll processing and record-keeping.

• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines under pressure.

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to handle employee payroll inquiries diplomatically.

• Knowledge of payroll tax regulations and the ability to file tax reports accurately.

Performance Expectations / Success Indicators

• Accuracy in payroll processing with minimal errors.

• Timely and compliant filing of payroll tax reports.

• Positive feedback from employees regarding payroll inquiries and resolutions.

• Efficient management of payroll discrepancies and reconciliation.

Physical and Work Requirements

• Ability to work at a desk for extended periods, processing payroll data.

• Ability to move between office areas to retrieve files and documents as needed.

• Ability to operate office machinery, including computers, copiers, and printers.

• Occasional lifting of light office items, up to 10 lbs.

Reporting Structure

Reports directly to the Payroll Manager.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

McDonald Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

Salary : $25,000