Senior Payroll Specialist

Job Description

The Washington Post is seeking a detail-oriented Senior Payroll Specialist responsible for end-to-end processing of the US biweekly or monthly payroll cycle in Workday. The biweekly payroll comprises approximately 1,400 union and non-union employees across two FEINs, while the monthly payroll includes approximately 1,000 non-union employees under one FEIN. The Senior Payroll Specialist will manage and verify data inputs, transmit payroll, research and resolve payroll-related issues, and provide excellent customer service to employees. This team member ensures all payroll tasks adhere to internal policies and procedures as well as federal, state, and local regulations, while also providing peer review for the other Senior Payroll Specialist.

Motivation

This role is ideal for a detail-oriented payroll professional who thrives in a dynamic environment with complex payroll requirements. You will play a crucial role in ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing while delivering excellent customer service. If you enjoy problem-solving, maintaining compliance, and continuously improving processes, this position offers the opportunity to develop your expertise with a respected organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete end-to-end payroll processing for one US payroll frequency in coordination with fellow Payroll team members, following standard operating procedures and checklists

• Manage payroll input, including EIBs, for assigned payroll frequency

• Review payroll data for errors, run audit reports, and prepare payroll preliminary reconciliation

• Manage unsubmitted timesheets and late manager approvals when processing biweekly payroll

• Utilize ADP SmartCompliance for ancillary services such as garnishments and tax filings

• Utilize Wells Fargo for wage payments

• Research and respond to employee/management payroll inquiries, providing excellent customer service

• Liaise with HR on pay-related issues, including retroactive results, benefits, leaves of absence, FMLA, and special circumstances

• Provide peer review for other Senior Payroll Specialist, addressing complex payroll inquiries and off-cycle payments

• Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports of payroll transactions through electronic storage

• Maintain efficient payroll processes that comply with policies and regulations, updating and documenting processes as changes occur

• Produce monthly reports for external departments

• Process off-cycle payments as necessary

• Manage Workday notifications and tasks for business processes

• Assist with ad hoc projects and audits

• Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• 4+ years of payroll experience processing multistate payrolls

• Experience with Workday Payroll, ADP tax, and compliance tools

• Solid foundation of payroll knowledge and regulations

• Strong organizational and time management skills

• Exceptional attention to detail with a high level of accuracy

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

• Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll-related software

• Commitment to maintaining strict confidentiality with sensitive data

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with international payroll processing for EMEA and APAC regions

• Experience working with union payroll requirements

• Fundamental Payroll Practitioner (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification

• Workday Payroll certification or equivalent credentials

• Experience with payroll system implementations or upgrades

The Washington Post’s policy for employees is five days per week in the office, with exceptions for newsgathering and general business travel.

Compensation and Benefits

Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage

• Company-paid pension and 401(k) match

• Three weeks of vacation and up to three weeks of paid sick leave

• Nine paid holidays and two personal days

• 20 weeks paid parental leave for any new parent

• Robust mental health resources

• Backup care and caregiver concierge services

• Gender affirming services

• Pet insurance

• Free Post digital subscription

• Leadership and career development programs

Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.

The salary range for this position is:

64,300.00 - 96,500.00 USD Annual

The actual salary within this range will depend on individual skills, experience, and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements. This position may be eligible for a bonus or incentive program, and a member of the Talent Acquisition team will discuss bonus payment terms and conditions during the interview process.

The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed. 

The innovation doesn’t end in the Newsroom – dozens of teams power The Washington Post.  We are now hiring the next innovator – how will you Impact Tomorrow?

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