Demo

Payroll Specialist

MCGOUGH CONSTRUCTION and Careers
Saint Paul, MN Full Time
POSTED ON 12/27/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/26/2026

McGough is a respected partner that brings six generations of experience to high profile, unique and complex construction projects. We take great pride in our people and their extraordinary expertise in planning, development, construction and facility management. McGough employee tenure reflects the commitment and pride we share in our work. Ask anyone who knows us - the caliber of our people sets us apart.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Payroll Specialist will be responsible for handling all aspects of an accurate and timely payroll process for the company’s workforce. The Payroll Specialist will ensure compliance with payroll regulations and internal controls. This role will be responsible for all aspects of the per diem process including assigning rates, validating payments, and processing through payments through the payroll system.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

  • 5 years of Payroll experience
  • 2 years of experience with per diems and multi-state taxation

Preferred:

  • 7 years of payroll experience
  • 5 years of experience with per diems and multi-state taxation

Skills:

  • Communicates effectively across all levels of the organization, translating complex or technical information into clear, understandable language.
  • Demonstrates creativity, diplomacy, and composure when solving problems or addressing challenges.
  • Applies strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and time management skills to manage multiple priorities efficiently.
  • Collaborates effectively with cross-functional teams and builds positive working relationships.
  • Maintains exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in all work.
  • Upholds the highest standards of integrity and confidentiality.
  • Prioritizes and manages multiple tasks within tight timeframes and shifting priorities.
  • Operates as a self-starter who is motivated and dependable with minimal supervision.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, and other payroll-related systems.
  • Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document processes and resolve issues effectively.
  • Utilizes sound accounting principles and research skills to analyze, document, and resolve payroll discrepancies.
  • Thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining focus, accuracy, and professionalism.

OFFICE AND TRAVEL:

  • Hybrid office attendance.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS:

  • Handle the administration of the per diem process
  • Prepare and validate per diem for 200 employees weekly
  • Process the per diem payroll for taxable per diems
  • Prepare and submit non-taxable per diems to AP for processing
  • Verify employees are properly setup in payroll system
  • Process employee changes/updates in the payroll system
  • Backup other payroll team members as needed
  • Respond to and resolve employee payroll inquiries
  • Support training needs for supervisors on use of time keeping system
  • Develop and maintain positive professional relationships with employees, project teams, etc.
  • View every interaction as an opportunity to add value and enhance relationships

OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED:

  • Actively contribute as a member of the HR & Payroll Teams by collaborating on shared goals, aligning efforts across departments, and supporting team priorities.
  • Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with internal colleagues
  • Attend and engage in internal and cross-functional company meetings.
  • Participate in relevant training opportunities for personal and professional growth, including leadership development and human resources topics.
  • Support and participate in company-sponsored events and initiatives that promote team engagement and culture.
  • Follow and reinforce standards of work, ensuring consistency and accountability.
  • Participate in Lean events and actively support continuous improvement initiatives aligned with the McGough Way.
  • Emphasize relationship-building as a core part of the role, both internally and externally.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The physical requirements listed here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Position involves sitting for extended periods of time at employee’s workstation and during meetings as well as while traveling, either by plane or car. Employee needs to be able to lift to 20 pounds as frequently as needed to move objects; dexterity to write and manipulate computer keyboard and mouse; ability to hear and speak clearly; and ability to distinguish between colors on graphs and charts.

Occasionally, employee will be required to visit construction jobsites which may expose the employee to dirt, dust, uneven surfaces, outdoor weather conditions and extreme temperatures.

***

In alignment with our commitment to pay transparency, the base salary range for this position is $36.00-46.00/hr, excluding fringe benefits or potential bonuses. If you join McGough, your final base salary will be determined by several factors, including geography, location, skills, education, and experience. Furthermore, we place significant value on pay equity among our current team members as part of any final job offer.

Please note that the range provided above reflects the hiring range for this role. Hiring near the top end of this range would be atypical, as we aim to allow room for future salary growth. Additionally, McGough offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes insurance coverage for medical, dental, vision, life, and disability. We also provide generous retirement plans, voluntary benefit plans, parental leave, substantial paid time off, and holiday pay.

Salary : $36 - $46

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