Payroll Specialist - Portland, OR

Cook Solutions Group is seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Payroll Specialist to oversee the organization’s payroll functions and ensure employees are paid accurately, on time, and in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. This role is responsible for processing bi-weekly payroll, maintaining employee payroll records, supporting HRIS data integrity, and assisting with payroll-related audits and reporting.

Location: Portland, OR. This is a hybrid position with 3 days in office and 2 days remote after initially training. Office is located in NE Portland near the Portland Airport.

Pay: $55K-$65K year DOE

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll accurately and on schedule.
• Enter, maintain, and process payroll-related information in the payroll system, including:
  • Hourly rates and salaries
  • Bonuses, commissions, and other compensation
  • Hours worked, paid leave, and holidays
  • Tax withholdings and payroll deductions
  • Benefit deductions, garnishments, and charitable contributions
  • Address changes and employee status updates
• Ensure proper calculation and processing of payroll deductions for taxes, benefits, and other authorized deductions.
• Issue or reissue physical checks or direct deposits as needed due to payroll corrections or final terminations.
• Maintain and review payroll processes to ensure timely and accurate payroll transactions, including salaries, benefits, garnishments, taxes, and other deductions.
• Process payroll updates accurately, including new hires, terminations, pay changes, and other employee status changes.
• Prepare and maintain accurate payroll records, reports, and supporting documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour laws, as well as company policies and best practices.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing and providing payroll records and documentation.
• Identify opportunities for improvement and recommend updates to payroll systems, software, and procedures.
• Maintain employee payroll records and support HRIS accuracy and integrity.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of payroll functions, including payroll processing, balancing, internal controls, and payroll tax compliance.
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Experience with payroll software required; Paychex Flex experience is a plus.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
• 3+ years of payroll experience required.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.