Payroll Specialist

Summary

Join Upwork, the world’s work marketplace, as a Payroll Specialist! This role requires 2-5 years of Workday payroll processing experience and a deep understanding of payroll taxes. You will manage the full payroll cycle, conduct audits, ensure tax compliance, and provide employee support. Strong Excel skills and attention to detail are essential. Upwork offers a remote-first work environment, comprehensive benefits including unlimited PTO and paid parental leave, and opportunities for professional growth.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience in payroll processing across multiple states/sites with a strong background in Workday payroll
• In-depth understanding of end-to-end payroll processes, payroll audits, payroll taxes, and complex tax situations
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, including functions, formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis
• Exceptional attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy in data handling and processing
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret payroll data and identify discrepancies
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to effectively communicate payroll information to employees and management
• Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll information and employee data
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility to adapt to changing regulations and processes

Responsibilities

• Prepare and process semi-monthly full cycle US exempt and non-exempt payroll
• Handle imputed income, garnishments, benefits, taxes, and off-cycle requests
• Ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations
• Handle the entire payroll process, including data entry, payroll calculation, validation, distribution, and reporting
• Administer the electronic timekeeping system
• Monitor the submission of approved timesheets, ensure data validity, and ensure adherence to FLSA content to/from payroll service
• Verify the accuracy of payroll elements including base pay, bonuses, equity, commissions, payroll taxes, and various deductions
• Ensure accurate calculation and reporting of payroll taxes, including federal, state, and local taxes. Handle complex tax situations and resolve tax issues as they arise
• Establish and maintain accurate tax jurisdictions within payroll systems
• Regularly review and reconcile payroll tax filings and deposits, coordinating with ADP to resolve discrepancies and ensure compliance
• Ensure accurate and timely 401(k) funding and reporting, assist with annual 401(k) audits, and ensure compliance with ERISA and IRS regulations
• Generate payroll reports for management, finance, and HR departments. Provide analysis and insights on payroll data
• Address and resolve payroll-related inquiries from employees. Provide guidance on payroll policies and procedures
• Identify opportunities for process improvements within the payroll function and implement solutions to enhance efficiency and accuracy
• Stay up-to-date with changes in payroll laws and regulations. Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll laws
• Work closely with HR, finance, and other departments to ensure seamless payroll processing and data accuracy

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) is a plus
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field is preferred
• Workday Payroll certification is highly desirable

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage for both you and your family
• Unlimited paid time off
• A 401(k) plan with matching contributions
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave
• An Employee Stock Purchase Plan