Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist will be responsible for end-to-end payroll administration, with a specialized focus on union fringe‑benefit reporting and certified payroll compliance. This role includes ensuring accurate, timely payroll processing for union and non‑union employees, maintaining compliance with applicable labor laws and union agreements, and supporting payroll‑related inquiries. The Payroll Specialist will collaborate with the Payroll, HR, and Finance teams to streamline processes and implement best practices.

This role ensures that all pay practices and contract pay requirements are met in accordance with contractual obligations and local, state, and federal laws.

• Process Payroll:
  Manage the end-to-end payroll process for designated payrolls with accuracy and timeliness, including data entry, calculations, timesheet verification, deductions, benefits, and reporting.

• Union Benefit and Project Reporting:
  Completes and submits monthly Union reports due at various times throughout the month, including "No Work" reporting. Coordinates with Accounts Payable teams to ensure timely payment and accurate recordkeeping.

• Certified Payroll Reporting:
  Tracks and submits certified payroll reports to various contract owners, including LCP Tracker, MN Dept of Administration, MN Dept of Transportation, WI Dept of Transportation, State of MN, and other specialty forms as provided by the Contractor.

• Union Compliance:
  Stay current on union agreements, collective bargaining agreements, and relevant labor laws to ensure accurate interpretation and application of payroll‑related provisions.

• Audit and Reporting:
  Conduct regular audits of payroll data to ensure accuracy and compliance. Generate reports for management and external stakeholders as needed. Complete quarterly and annual reports (W-2s, state and federal tax, and unemployment, etc.). Responsible for the proper filing of payroll tax returns and the submission of necessary benefit and deduction payments to the appropriate entities.

• Resolve Discrepancies:
  Address and resolve payroll discrepancies, inquiries, and disputes promptly and professionally. Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to resolve complex issues.

• Communication:
  Serve as a point of contact for employees, managers, finance, and the labor relations manager regarding payroll matters. Maintain open lines of communication to address concerns, resolve issues, and ensure compliance.

• Compliance Monitoring:
  Track changes in labor laws, regulations, and union agreements to ensure ongoing compliance with payroll‑related requirements.

• Continuous Improvement:
  Identify opportunities to improve processes and automate where possible to enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and effectiveness of payroll operations. Create and maintain SOPs for union reporting and certified payroll processes.

• Associate’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field, with a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in payroll administration in a union environment.
• Experience with ERP and HRIS software programs (preferably Vista ViewPoint).
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to collect, organize, analyze, and disseminate large volumes of information with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to effectively convey complex information clearly to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Proficiency in business process management software.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment, managing multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
• Ability to approach opportunities and challenges with an energetic, motivational, and action‑oriented approach.
• Thorough understanding of labor laws, union contracts, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Proficiency in payroll software and MS Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• High level of integrity and confidentiality.
• Ability to prioritize and take immediate action on high‑priority tasks.

• An…