About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Senior Payroll Specialist to join our client on a contract-to-hire basis . This is a fully remote role responsible for managing end-to-end payroll operations, ensuring compliance, and driving process improvements across a multi-state and international workforce.
This role requires deep, hands-on experience processing payroll end-to-end in Workday. Candidates without direct, full-cycle Workday payroll experience will not be considered.
- Identify process gaps and implement improvements to increase payroll efficiency and accuracy
- Develop and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices
- Build strong, collaborative relationships with People Teams, leadership, and employees across the organization
- Own and execute end-to-end payroll processing in Workday , including data validation, payroll runs, audits, and post-payroll activities
- Process full-cycle, multi-state payroll for approximately 700 U.S. and 100 international employees using Workday
- Ensure accurate and timely payroll tax filings through ADP SmartCompliance
- Manage and audit 401(k) contributions , including support for annual audits
- Respond promptly to payroll-related inquiries and resolve issues effectively
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll regulations
- Perform regular audits, reconciliations, and reporting
- Partner closely with and support the Payroll Manager on ongoing initiatives
- 5+ years of payroll experience
- 3+ years of hands-on, end-to-end payroll processing in Workday (from input through post-payroll reconciliation)
- Proven experience owning full-cycle payroll within Workday—this is required
- Strong understanding of Workday’s integrated payroll systems and data flows
- Experience with ADP SmartCompliance
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (including VLOOKUPs and pivot tables)
- Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
- Experience working with federal and state tax agencies
- Fluent in English (written and verbal)
- Experience with Jira or similar ticketing systems
- Experience with Fidelity 401K
- Experience with Paylocity
- Strong attention to detail with excellent problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment
- Experience in a high-growth or fast-paced company
- Type: Contract-to-Hire
- Location: Fully Remote
- Schedule: Full-time
