Payroll Specialist I

We are looking for a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist I to support payroll operations for a large multi-state workforce in Houston, Texas. This Long-term Contract position focuses on accurate payroll administration, employee support, and timely completion of payroll-related tasks in a deadline-driven environment. The ideal candidate brings hands-on corporate payroll experience, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with managers, Human Resources, and employees. There is potential for the assignment to be extended or lead to a permanent opportunity based on business needs and performance.

Responsibilities:
• Administer biweekly and monthly payroll cycles for approximately 1,200 to 2,000 employees across multiple states, ensuring accuracy and compliance throughout each processing period.
• Review payroll results by reconciling earnings, deductions, and tax data, then prepare audit findings and supporting documentation for management approval.
• Coordinate with supervisors to confirm non-exempt employee time is reviewed and approved within established payroll deadlines.
• Enter payroll data and complete adjustments such as tax corrections, company reclassifications, manual payments, on-demand payments, and other payroll updates as needed.
• Maintain payroll-related system activity by processing organizational loads, validating integrations, and auditing tax and payment election setups.
• Handle specialized payroll transactions including W-2 corrections, garnishment setups, and tax levy administration while following company procedures and legal requirements.
• Distribute payroll checks and pay statements when required and provide day-to-day support through case management activities and the payroll help line.
• Respond to payroll questions from employees, Human Resources, and Benefits teams, and contribute to special assignments and process-related projects as requested.

Qualifications:

• At least 2 years of experience in a corporate payroll environment.
• Working knowledge of payroll fundamentals, including overtime calculations, tax withholdings, reconciliations, and related adjustments.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word for reporting, review, and documentation tasks.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with the capacity to manage strict daily deadlines and shifting priorities.
• Effective problem-solving, numerical accuracy, and attention to detail in a high-volume processing environment.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, along with a customer-focused approach to employee support.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team, including willingness to work overtime when needed.
• Must be able to work on site in Houston, Texas during the training period and as business needs require.

Compensation

$18.00-$20.00 Hourly

About Us

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All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.

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