Demo

Sr. Payroll Specialist

Stratus
Mentor, OH Full Time
POSTED ON 6/14/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/20/2026
There’s never been a better time to join Stratus! As the market leader in brand implementation and maintenance, we transform how national brands connect with their customers. From exterior signage & interior branding to site refresh & remodel, from energy & lighting to repair & maintenance solutions, we deliver ideal solutions to meet all our client's branding needs.

From our locations across the country, to our corporate headquarters in Mentor, Ohio, every employee is a stakeholder in Stratus’ success. This environment offers endless career opportunities for individuals with a commitment to customer service, focus on execution and bias for action.

Job Summary: The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing for all employees while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role serves as a subject matter expert in payroll operations, supporting audits, system improvements, and process efficiencies. The Senior Payroll Specialist collaborates with People & Culture, Finance, and external vendors to resolve payroll-related inquiries and continuously enhance payroll processes.

Responsibilities

  • Process weekly and off-cycle payrolls, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, overtime, deductions, and tax withholdings.
  • Review, audit, and reconcile payroll data, including timekeeping records, benefits deductions, and adjustments for accuracy and compliance.
  • Act as a payroll subject matter expert, advising internal stakeholders on payroll policies, tax regulations, and compliance requirements.
  • Maintain payroll systems and ensure payroll transactions align with company policies and government regulations.
  • Research and resolve payroll discrepancies, employee inquiries, and escalated issues in a timely and professional manner.
  • Process wage garnishments, child support orders, and other legally mandated payroll deductions.
  • Ensure payroll tax filings, year-end reporting, W-2 distribution, and compliance with multi-state tax laws.
  • Assist with system upgrades, implementation, and optimization of payroll software, ensuring seamless integration with People & Culture and accounting systems.
  • Develop and maintain payroll process documentation, standard operating procedures, and training materials.
  • Support internal and external payroll audits by providing necessary reports and documentation.
  • Generate payroll reports and analytics, identifying trends and opportunities for process improvements.
  • Stay updated on changes in payroll regulations, tax laws, and best practices to maintain compliance and efficiency.

Qualifications

Skills & Competencies:

  • Extensive knowledge of weekly payroll processing, multi-state taxation, and compliance regulations.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for accuracy and detail.
  • Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Workday, UKG) and Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUPs, Pivot Tables).
  • Strong understanding of FLSA, wage and hour laws, payroll tax laws, and regulatory reporting.
  • Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact with employees at all levels of the organization.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Education & Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
  • 5 years of payroll processing experience in a multi-state environment, with weekly payroll experience preferred.
  • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification preferred.

Physical & Mental Demands:

  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer.
  • High level of concentration and ability to adapt to shifting priorities or deadlines.

Working Conditions:

  • Flexibility to work extended hours during payroll deadlines, quarter-end, and year-end reporting.

Why Work With Us

  • Supportive & Friendly Culture
  • Manage national accounts for Fortune 500 companies
  • Medical, Dental, Vision coverage options
  • Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
  • Company paid Life Insurance
  • 401k with Employer Contribution
  • Company paid Short/Long Term Disability
  • Generous Paid Time Off program Holidays
  • Career Growth Opportunities and Career Mapping
  • Additional perks including Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Program, Identity Theft Protection, Critical Illness Plans, Commuter Benefits and various employee discount offerings from our Vendors

Pay Range

$70,000- $85,000 annually - Pay range listed reflects the potential pay for this role. The pay will depend on various factors, such as responsibilities of the position, job duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills. Not all positions posted will have a pay range listed.

eeo/mfdv

Salary : $70,000 - $85,000

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