Lead Payroll Operations Specialist

We are looking for an experienced payroll specialist to lead day-to-day payroll operations for a non-profit organization in North Charleston, South Carolina. This role supports accurate, timely payroll processing while helping strengthen internal controls and team performance. The ideal candidate brings strong technical payroll knowledge, sound judgment, and the ability to guide staff through complex payroll matters in a high-volume environment.

Responsibilities:
• Oversee daily payroll activities and help organize workflow to ensure processing stays on schedule and meets established service expectations.
• Review payroll entries, adjustments, and supporting records to confirm accuracy, completeness, and compliance before final submission.
• Act as the primary resource for team members who need support with complex earnings, deductions, tax treatments, and other payroll calculations.
• Investigate payroll discrepancies, troubleshoot processing issues, and drive timely resolution to minimize disruption for employees and stakeholders.
• Conduct quality assurance checks across payroll operations and recommend corrective actions when inconsistencies or control gaps are identified.
• Monitor recurring issues and data patterns, then suggest process improvements that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and reliability.
• Provide day-to-day direction, coaching, and operational support to payroll staff to maintain strong performance and consistency.
• Serve as the first point of escalation for payroll concerns, addressing more advanced issues before leadership intervention is needed.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience managing full-cycle payroll processing in a high-volume environment supporting more than 500 employees.
• Hands-on expertise with multi-state payroll administration, including accurate handling of varying tax and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency using ADP Workforce Now for payroll processing, review, and issue resolution.
• Experience supporting bi-monthly payroll cycles with strong attention to deadlines and detail.
• Advanced knowledge of payroll calculations, adjustments, reconciliations, and documentation review.
• Ability to identify errors, analyze root causes, and implement practical solutions to improve payroll operations.
• Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to guide staff and address escalated payroll matters effectively.

Compensation

$65,000.00-$85,000.00 Yearly

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