Senior Payroll Associate

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. • Northbrook, IL

1d

About The Position

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates Inc. (WJE) is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists committed to helping solve, repair, and avoid problems in the built world and construction industry. Since 1956, our applied experience from more than 175,000 projects and our state-of-the-art laboratory and testing facilities have made WJE a leader in providing innovative yet practical solutions to the clients we serve. From historic preservation to post-disaster safety assessments, we respond to the most challenging problems in the built world. Position Summary: The Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting the full-cycle, multi-state payroll function for the company. This role requires strong analytical skills, expert knowledge of payroll regulations, and the ability to exercise independent judgment to ensure payroll accuracy, compliance, and timely processing. This individual will serve as key liaison between Payroll, Accounting, and Human Resources, providing guidance on payroll processing and compliance matters.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent work experience
• Minimum of five years of experience in multi-state payroll processing
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations and compliance requirements
• Experience with Workday is required
• Experience working within an integrated HRIS/ERP environment.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and strong analytical/reconciliation skills
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage payroll processes with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines

Nice To Haves

• CPP certification preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead and process bi-weekly multi-state payroll, including off-cycle payrolls, expense reimbursements, bonuses, and other adjustments
• Review, reconcile, and audit payroll data, including timesheets, wage calculations, deductions, retroactive pay, leave adjustments, and salary changes to ensure numerical accuracy and compliance
• Execute payroll-related recordkeeping and accounting activities, including preparation of bi-weekly and monthly payroll and tax journal entries within the workday system
• Audit Workday data to ensure alignment with payroll records and investigate discrepancies in collaboration with Human Resources
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, and reporting requirements
• Support payroll tax compliance activities, including coordination of filings, reconciliation of tax accounts, and assistance with audits
• Process and troubleshoot payroll issues, including employee questions related to pay discrepancies, tax withholdings, and benefit deductions
• Prepare bi-weekly, quarterly, and annual payroll reports for management, Accounting, and external auditors as needed
• Assist with year-end payroll processes, including W-2 preparation and related reporting requirements
• Partner with the Payroll Manager to identify and implement process improvements that enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and integrity of payroll operations
• Coordinate with the Benefits Administration team regarding benefits and 401(k) deduction adjustments
• Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll and employee information
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the ongoing needs of the organization

Benefits

• WJE offers a robust, total compensation structure composed of base salary, incentive pay, and industry-leading benefits:
• Base salary is determined through consideration of a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role while remaining mindful of our commitment to internal equity.
• Employees receive variable compensation based on personal and company performance, typically resulting in above-market total compensation.
• Robust and affordable health plans for employees and their families, including HSA as well as low and high-deductible PPO options
• Generous 401(k) matching of 110% for the first 6% of eligible pay, vesting immediately
• Time off to care for yourself and others
• Investments in employees’ educational assistance and professional development

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level