About the Certified Payroll Administrator Role

Are you a detail-oriented payroll professional with expertise in certified payroll and prevailing wage compliance? Robert Half is partnering with a well-established heating and cooling company in Schenectady, New York, to find a Certified Payroll Administrator for a temp-to-hire position. This critical role ensures seamless payroll operations for public works and prevailing wage projects, maintaining full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment where accuracy is paramount and have experience with DOL and NYS reporting requirements, this opportunity offers long-term stability and career growth.

In this position, you'll play a vital role in supporting field employees, union, and non-union workers by processing weekly certified payroll, verifying wage rates, and preparing audit-ready documentation. As a key contributor to the HR and project management teams, you'll help the company avoid compliance pitfalls while contributing to successful project deliveries. Schenectady, NY, provides an ideal setting with its thriving construction and public works sector, making this a prime location for payroll specialists seeking impactful work.

Key Responsibilities

• Process weekly certified payroll for field and union/non-union employees, ensuring timely and accurate payments.
• Prepare and submit certified payroll reports in full compliance with prevailing wage laws, including DOL, NYS Department of Labor, and local agency requirements.
• Verify and calculate accurate wage rates, employee classifications, fringe benefits, and deductions to prevent errors and penalties.
• Maintain comprehensive payroll records and supporting documentation, ready for audits and inspections.
• Collaborate with project managers and HR teams to confirm job codes, worked hours, and labor classifications for precision.
• Respond promptly to payroll and compliance inquiries from internal stakeholders, employees, and regulatory agencies.
• Assist with general payroll processing, administrative tasks, and ad-hoc projects to support overall operations.

These responsibilities demand a proactive approach, strong regulatory knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines effectively.

Required Qualifications

To succeed as a Certified Payroll Administrator, candidates must possess proven expertise in certified payroll environments. Essential qualifications include:

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification or equivalent from recognized bodies.
• At least 3 years of hands-on experience processing certified payroll for public works, construction, or prevailing wage projects.
• Deep understanding of federal Davis-Bacon Act, New York State prevailing wage laws, and local ordinances.
• Proficiency in payroll software such as Viewpoint, Foundation, or similar systems used for certified reporting.
• Exceptional attention to detail, mathematical aptitude, and error-free data management skills.
• Strong communication abilities for coordinating with cross-functional teams and external agencies.
• Familiarity with union contracts, fringe benefit tracking, and apprenticeship programs.
• High school diploma required; associate's or bachelor's degree in accounting, HR, or related field preferred.

Candidates with experience in the construction or HVAC industry will have a distinct advantage, as this role supports heating and cooling projects specifically.

Why Join Us?

Robert Half places top talent in rewarding roles like this Certified Payroll Administrator position with a reputable employer in Schenectady, NY. Enjoy a competitive hourly rate of $30, with potential for full-time conversion including comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, 401(k) matching, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. This temp-to-hire role offers stability in a growing company focused on heating, cooling, and public infrastructure projects.

Work in a supportive environment where your compliance expertise directly impacts project success and employee satisfaction. Schenectady's vibrant community, combined with the Upstate New York's lower cost of living, makes this an attractive location for career advancement. Robert Half provides unmatched support, from interview prep to ongoing career guidance.

Keywords: Certified Payroll Administrator jobs Schenectady NY, prevailing wage payroll specialist, construction payroll compliance, Robert Half careers, temp-to-hire payroll roles, DOL certified payroll, NYS public works payroll.

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