Payroll Specialist

Gordon Thomas Honeywell LLP (GTH), with over 125 years of history, represents companies, governmental agencies, and individuals across the Pacific Northwest and the U.S. Known for combining legal expertise with business acumen, GTH is dedicated to advancing its clients' interests effectively. The firm prides itself on delivering high-quality legal services in a dependable and timely manner while fostering long-term client relationships.

With a team of more than 35 attorneys located in Tacoma and Seattle, GTH is deeply rooted in serving the Pacific Northwest region.

The Payroll Specialist/Staff Accountant is responsible for managing all aspects of payroll operations to ensure accurate and timely processing for partners and employees. This role oversees payroll compliance, benefits‑related deductions, and payroll reporting, while maintaining strong internal controls and confidentiality. The Payroll Specialist/Staff Accountant works closely with Human Resources and the Accounting Team to support compensation and benefits programs.

• Manage end‑to‑end payroll processing, including mid‑month draws and month‑end payroll cycles.
• Review and correct employee time entries in ADP and ensure accurate data submission ensuring compliance with Firm policies and legal requirements.
• Verify hours worked, benefits deductions, pay information, and tax calculations.
• Prepare payroll‑related general ledger entries and reconciliations.
• Administer employee benefits enrollments and changes; ensure prompt payment of benefits invoices; monitor requirements and reconcile benefit invoices.
• Work closely with HR to maintain records for new hires, terminations, leaves of absence, and benefits enrollments.
• Assist HR with Open Enrollment by providing accurate and timely reports as requested.
• Process and fund HSA and commuter benefit contributions; manage related bank transfers.
• Submit 401(k) contribution files and ensure compliance with retirement plan requirements; manage related bank wires.
• Prepare and file quarterly payroll tax returns and annual reports (W-2, ACA).
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
• Respond to tax agency inquiries; work with ADP to resolve issues related to payroll taxes.
• Act as system liaison for payroll and timekeeping platforms; troubleshoot and resolve issues.
• Generate payroll and benefits reports for internal use and audits.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance payroll accuracy and efficiency.
• Serve as point of contact for employee inquiries related to payroll, deductions, and benefits.
• Address employee concerns and provide timely solutions regarding payroll discrepancies.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field.
• 5+ years of payroll experience; 2+ years in a supervisory or management role preferred.
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now or similar payroll systems required.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation preferred.
• Strong knowledge of payroll tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and benefits administration.

• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and payroll software.
• Effective communication and problem‑solving skills.

This job description describes the general nature and level of work to be performed; it is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and requirements of the job.

All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Firm management reserves the right to modify or change this job description at any time, without notice.

$33.65 - $40.86 per hour

40 per week

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

• Payroll: 3 years (Required)

• Tacoma, WA 98402 (Required)

• Mid-Senior level

• Full-time

• Human Resources

• Law Practice