About the Payroll Specialist Role at Robert Half

Robert Half is proud to partner with a leading organization in Howard Lake, Minnesota, to find a talented Payroll Specialist for a rewarding contract-to-permanent position. This is your chance to join a dynamic team handling payroll operations for a large employee base of approximately 600 workers. As a Payroll Specialist, you'll play a critical role in ensuring accurate, timely payroll processing while maintaining strict compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Located in the heart of Howard Lake, MN, this role offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and professional growth opportunities in the payroll and HR field.

Payroll Specialists are in high demand, especially those skilled in modern systems like Paylocity. If you're passionate about precision, employee satisfaction, and staying ahead of industry trends, this Payroll Specialist job in Howard Lake, MN is tailored for you. Robert Half specializes in connecting top talent with exceptional employers, and this position exemplifies our commitment to career advancement through temp-to-hire opportunities.

Why Howard Lake, Minnesota?

Howard Lake, Minnesota, offers a peaceful, community-oriented lifestyle just 50 miles west of Minneapolis. With its lakeside beauty and family-friendly vibe, it's an ideal spot for professionals seeking work-life balance while advancing in payroll careers.

Key Responsibilities

In this hands-on Payroll Specialist role, you'll manage end-to-end payroll operations with a focus on accuracy and efficiency. Expect to:

• Process bi-weekly payroll for 600+ employees using Paylocity, ensuring every detail is handled with utmost precision.
• Maintain and update payroll data, verifying compliance with all organizational policies and regulatory requirements.
• Partner closely with HR teams on initiatives, from onboarding to special projects that drive business success.
• Administer employee benefits programs, including real-time updates, enrollment tracking, and discrepancy resolution.
• Monitor adherence to federal (FLSA, FICA), state (Minnesota labor laws), and local regulations to mitigate risks.
• Swiftly investigate and resolve payroll issues, keeping employee trust and satisfaction at the forefront.
• Generate detailed payroll reports and perform analysis for leadership, auditors, and stakeholders.
• Serve as a go-to resource for employee questions on paychecks, deductions, benefits, and tax withholdings.
• Proactively research payroll trends, tax law changes, and best practices to optimize processes.

This role demands strong organizational skills and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with high-volume transactions.

Required Qualifications

To excel as our Payroll Specialist, bring the following expertise:

• 3+ years of payroll processing experience, ideally with large employee bases.
• Advanced proficiency in Paylocity or similar HCM/payroll platforms.
• Deep understanding of payroll compliance, including wage and hour laws.
• Proven track record in benefits administration and employee data management.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills for resolving complex discrepancies.
• Analytical mindset for reporting and forecasting payroll expenses.
• Strong communication skills for HR collaboration and employee support.
• Bachelor's degree in HR, Accounting, Business, or related field preferred; certifications like CPP or FPC are a plus.
• Ability to adapt to changing regulations and implement process improvements.

Robert Half values diverse backgrounds and encourages applications from motivated professionals ready to grow.

Why Join Us?

Choosing Robert Half means investing in your future. This contract-to-permanent Payroll Specialist position starts with competitive hourly pay around $40/hour (equating to $83,200-$104,000 annually based on full-time hours) and transitions to full-time benefits. Enjoy health insurance, 401(k) matching, PTO, and ongoing training in payroll technologies.

Our client offers a collaborative culture, modern tools, and real impact on employee well-being. Howard Lake's location provides affordability and nature's beauty, while Robert Half's network opens doors to endless opportunities. SEO keywords like 'Payroll Specialist jobs Howard Lake MN,' 'Paylocity careers Minnesota,' and 'temp to perm payroll roles' highlight this prime opportunity.

Apply today through Robert Half and elevate your payroll career! With over 70 years of expertise, we're your partner in professional success. (Word count: 812)