Demo

Sr. Payroll Specialist

Robert Half
Des Moines, IA Full Time
POSTED ON 8/11/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 8/10/2028

Are you ready to take the reins of the payroll department and turn numbers and processes into pure magic? Our client is looking for an experienced Sr. Payroll Specialist who can own the entire payroll cycle from start to finish—and have some fun while doing it!


The Role:

As the Payroll Wizard, you’ll handle full-cycle payroll with precision, ensuring every paycheck is accurate, timely, and hassle-free. This is a solo role, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to shine as you:

  • Process multi-state payroll flawlessly for the organization (300-500 employees).
  • Keep things running like clockwork with compliance, reporting, and reconciliations.
  • Leverage your expertise in payroll platforms (bonus points if you have experience with UKG/Kronos) to maximize efficiency and maintain accuracy.
  • Answer employee questions and provide top-notch service with a friendly flair.
  • Navigate payroll intricacies like shift differentials, commissions, pay premiums, on calls, and more for both hourly and salaried employees.
  • Generate critical payroll reports to keep things accurate and on point—and to impress leadership.
  • Ensure compliance with Department of Labor regulations and handle the nuances of sick pay, absences, and tax calculations.
  • Keep everyone happy and stress-free with superior customer service skills to answer all payroll-related questions.
  • Partner with HR and accounting to keep workflows seamless.

Why You’ll Love This Job:

  • Autonomy! Be the boss of payroll operations and take charge.
  • Impact! What you do directly supports employees and keeps the wheels turning.
  • Growth! Bring your expertise and help create efficiencies within the department.
  • Fun! This client values a work environment that’s professional yet vibrant.

Qualifications:

We’re on the lookout for someone who’s passionate about payroll and has:

  • 5 years of full-cycle payroll experience.
  • A strong understanding of payroll laws, regulations, and best practices.
  • Skills to thrive in a self-managed, one-person department.
  • Proficiency in payroll software (UKG/Kronos experience = gold star!).
  • A detail-oriented mindset and an ability to multitask with ease.
  • Experience handling shift differentials, commissions/bonuses, and all the payroll quirks that come with a versatile workforce.

If you’re experienced, motivated, and ready to own payroll in a meaningful way, we’d love to hear from you!

Apply now—and let’s make payroll magic happen! For a confidential career conversation reach out to leasha.carpenter@roberthalf com today!

Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.



Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.



All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.



© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use.

Salary : $65,000 - $85,000

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