Senior Payroll Specialist

Our client in Northwest Houston is looking for an experienced Senior Payroll Specialist to take ownership of payroll operations for a growing, multi-state organization within the manufacturing / O&G space. This role is hands-on, detail-driven, and critical to ensuring employees are paid accurately, compliantly, and on time.

• End-to-end biweekly payroll processing for both exempt and non-exempt employees across multiple states
• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including taxes, garnishments, and wage deductions
• Maintain compliance with FLSA and other applicable labor laws
• Serve as the system expert for ADP payroll-related modules, including time tracking and absence management
• Review, audit, and validate payroll data to ensure accuracy and resolve discrepancies
• Reconcile payroll accounts and support month-end and year-end reporting activities
• Prepare and assist with year-end filings such as W-2s and payroll tax reports
• Administer 401(k) payroll contributions and related reporting
• Act as the go-to resource for payroll questions from employees, HR, and leadership
• Support audits and compliance reviews by providing documentation and payroll data
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, increase efficiency, and support system enhancements
• Collaborate cross-functionally on payroll-related projects and initiatives

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related discipline — or equivalent hands-on experience
• 5+ years of payroll experience, ideally supporting a multi-state workforce
• Strong working knowledge of ADP payroll systems, including time and attendance tools
• Solid understanding of payroll tax requirements and employment regulations at both the federal and state level
• High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Advanced Excel skills and overall comfort working with payroll data and reports
• Experience supporting payroll audits and compliance initiatives
• Proven ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism