Payroll Specialst Client Onboarding

Payroll Specialist

The Woodlands, TX

AllianceHCM is looking for a detail-oriented, dependable, and client-focused Payroll Specialist to manage end-to-end payroll processing for a portfolio of clients on our platform. You'll ensure accurate and timely payroll runs, maintain compliance with federal and state regulations, and serve as a trusted resource for clients navigating complex payroll scenarios.

This role is the backbone of client payroll operations — ensuring every pay cycle closes accurately, on time, and in full compliance. It's the right fit for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, takes ownership of their client relationships, and finds satisfaction in getting the details exactly right.

• Process multi-state payroll accurately and on schedule for a dedicated portfolio of clients, including regular, off-cycle, and supplemental payroll runs on the AllianceHCM platform.

• Serve as the primary payroll point of contact for assigned clients, responding to inquiries, resolving discrepancies, and proactively communicating payroll status and deadlines.

• Audit payroll data prior to each processing cycle — verifying hours, earnings, deductions, garnishments, and tax withholdings for accuracy and compliance.

• Partner closely with Client Onboarding and Implementation teams to ensure smooth payroll transitions for new clients, validating data imports and confirming system configurations prior to first live payroll.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations, applying changes promptly and advising clients on compliance obligations.

• Prepare and distribute payroll reports, including earnings summaries, tax liability reports, and custom client-requested outputs.

• Coordinate year-end payroll activities including W-2 processing, ACA reporting, and reconciliation of annual payroll records.

• Identify and escalate system or data anomalies, collaborating with internal teams to resolve root causes and prevent recurrence.

• 3+ years of experience in full-cycle payroll processing, preferably within a multi-client or service bureau environment.

• Strong working knowledge of federal and multi-state payroll tax compliance, wage and hour laws, and garnishment processing.

• Proficiency with payroll or HCM platforms; experience processing payroll within a software-as-a-service (SaaS) environment preferred.

• Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to identify discrepancies and resolve issues efficiently under deadline pressure.

• Ability to manage a high-volume client portfolio simultaneously, balancing competing priorities without sacrificing accuracy.

• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification) designation.

• Experience processing payroll on HCM platforms such as UKG, Ceridian Dayforce, Workday, or isolved.

• Familiarity with 401(k), benefits deduction integrations, and carrier file management.

• Background supporting HR or benefits administration alongside payroll functions.

• Experience with payroll implementations or data migration projects.

• 100% employer-paid health, dental, vision, life, and LTD insurance

• 401(k) with company match

• Hands-on training, coaching, and mentorship from top performers

• High-energy, team-driven culture that rewards performance