Payroll Specialist

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants is looking for an experienced Payroll Specialist to support the growth of the business. This position is primarily responsible for timely and accurate processing of bi‑weekly payrolls for multiple entities. The Payroll Specialist ensures compliance with various state and federal regulations, while maintaining data as required by all governmental agencies. Our restaurant concept has over 65 locations in 12 states, with plans for significant growth.

This position will be a part of the Accounting and Finance team and is located at the Restaurant Support Center in Downers Grove, IL. We offer a hybrid work environment with 3 days in office; 2 remote. During payroll processing days (biweekly on Thursday, Friday & Monday), you will be required to work in the office.

• Process bi-weekly payroll for hourly, salaried, and tipped employees in a timely and accurate manner with great attention to detail
• Verify the accuracy of all earnings, deductions and tax with holdings in accordance with all federal, state and local laws and guidelines
• Process all child support, wage garnishments, levies and other payroll deductions
• Verify, audit and interpret data imports for payroll processing such as time cards and benefits against source documents to ensure accuracy
• Ensure approval process is followed for any special payroll requests including manual payroll adjustments and checks
• Partner with HR and restaurant operations to ensure orderly flow of data to preserve data integrity
• Identify any issues related to payroll and determine appropriate resolutions
• Ensure employees are properly paid, including accrued benefits according to separation guidelines
• Process 401(k) with holdings in accordance with DOL and IRS legislation
• Assist with filing all federal, state and local tax and labor documents as required
• Develop and maintain process checklists while employing a disciplined approach to achieve excellence
• Assist with various audits and supports the accounting team as needed
• Generate and reconcile the general ledger posting report each payroll
• Support process improvements and initiatives as requested by management
• Do various reporting to government agencies like the BLS (Business of Labor and Statistics)

• Must represent Cooper’s Hawk values
• 5+ years of multi-state payroll processing experience with an automated payroll system
• Ability to work holidays as required
• Team leadership experience required
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience preferred
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is preferred
• Working knowledge of federal and multi-state payroll laws
• Working knowledge of taxation of various benefits (401k plans, cafeteria plans, fringe benefits, stock-based compensation, etc.)
• Customer service focused mentality with internal and external partners
• Ability to handle sensitive information and maintain a high level of confidentiality
• Ability to establish priorities and work within deadlines
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and automated payroll systems
• Excellent planning, organization and communication skills
• Experience with Paylocity a plus
• Experience with Pay Day Portal and Daily Pay a plus
• Strong critical thinking skills
• Desire for process improvement and driven to produce quality work
• Excellent written and verbal communication

Compensation range is $60,000-$65,000/year. The final offered salary will be based on several factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s depth of experience, skill set, qualifications, and internal pay equity.

• Incredible Discounts:
  • Monthly Dining Allowance
  • 50% Dining and Carryout
  • 40% Retail Wine
  • 20% Retail and Private Events
• Monthly Complimentary Wine Tasting for Two
• Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision Insurance plus Telemedicine and Wellness Program
• Company Matching 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Flexible Savings Accounts
  - Health and Dependent Care
• Health Savings Account
• Long-Term Disability;
  Voluntary Short-Term Disability
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (with option to purchase additional coverage)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Highly Competitive Pay plus Team Member Incentives & Rewards
• Paid Time Off
• Milestones Recognition Program
• Complimentary Gym…