Payroll Specialist

OVERVIEW
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to join our team. The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the timely processing of payroll and tax compliance filings and the maintenance of payroll records. This position requires a high level of confidentiality, professionalism, and accuracy.

KEY RESPONSIBLITIES

Payroll Processing

• Manage end-to-end weekly payroll processing for multiple entities operating in Alaska and North Dakota

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax laws, wage and hour regulations, and company policies
• Prepare and file payroll tax returns including Form 941, W-2s, and state/local equivalents
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in payroll legislation and tax rates
• Assist with internal and external payroll audits by providing documentation and reports as needed

Systems & Record Keeping

• Maintain precise payroll records and personnel action files
• Generate standard and ad hoc payroll reports for accounting and leadership teams
• Ensure confidentiality and security of all payroll data and employee information.
• Support system upgrades, testing, and implementation of payroll process improvements

Employee Support

• Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, benefits, and tax withholdings.
• Collaborate with HR on onboarding, offboarding, and leave of absence pay calculations.
• Administer garnishments, child support orders, and voluntary deductions per legal requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Minimum of 2 years’ hands-on experience in payroll processing
• Demonstrated proficiency with payroll software(s)
• Strong knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations and government reporting standards
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, data validation)
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Ability to meet strict deadlines and handle confidential information with discretion
• Excellent analysis skills with attention to detail for data entry and account reconciliation tasks
• Ability to handle multiple priorities efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy
• Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with accounting team and field personnel
• Ability to complete tasks while working independently and with minimal supervision

Preferred

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) designation.
• Experience with multi-state payroll processing
• Knowledge of union payroll, prevailing wage, and/or government contractor requirements.
• Familiarity with HRIS integrations and data import/export processes
• Strong understanding of accounting principles including double entry bookkeeping, debits & credits, journal entries, and general ledger reconciliation
• Prior experience working in Sage 300 CRE

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in payroll processing, possess excellent organizational skills, and demonstrate a high level of accuracy in their work. This individual must also be highly motivated and dependable with the ability to learn new skills and processes quickly.

BENEFITS

• Low-deductible health, dental, & vision insurance with 100% of the premium paid by employer for employee and all legal dependents
• 401(k) deferral option
• Paid vacation and holidays

Standard hours are Monday-Friday 8 AM-5 PM with an hour for lunch but we will consider other comparable scheduling. Salary will depend on experience.

This is an in-person position - no remote work or hybrid options are available. Preference will be given to candidates residing in Anchorage and the surrounding area. If you are relocating to Anchorage or the surrounding area in the immediate future, please include a cover letter detailing this information. Out of area applicants who do not include this information will not be considered. We are not offering relocation assistance for this position.

If you are a dedicated Payroll Specialist looking to join a dynamic team, please submit your resume for consideration. Embark on a rewarding career where your expertise in payroll management will directly impact our organization’s success!

Pay: $70,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Payroll: 2 years (Preferred)
• Analysis skills: 4 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Anchorage, AK 99502 (Required)

Work Location: In person