About the Payroll Specialist Role

Robert Half is thrilled to present an exceptional opportunity for a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join a dynamic advertising company in New York, New York, United States on a contract basis. This high-impact position is perfect for seasoned professionals who thrive in fast-paced, high-volume environments managing payroll for over 500 employees across multiple states. As a Payroll Specialist at Robert Half, you'll play a pivotal role in ensuring seamless payroll operations, leveraging cutting-edge tools like ADP and advanced Excel to deliver accuracy and compliance. If you're passionate about payroll processing, regulatory adherence, and collaborative teamwork, this contract role offers the excitement of contributing to a vibrant advertising firm while building your expertise with one of the nation's leading talent solutions providers.

Payroll Specialists are in high demand in New York City's competitive job market, where precision meets innovation. This role demands expertise in full-cycle payroll, multi-state compliance, and data-driven analysis—skills that position you for long-term success in HR and finance careers. Robert Half specializes in connecting top talent like you with rewarding contract opportunities that can lead to permanent placements or skill-enhancing experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Your day-to-day will involve owning the end-to-end payroll lifecycle for a large, multi-state workforce:

• Full-Cycle Payroll Processing: Execute timely and accurate payroll runs for 500+ employees, minimizing errors and ensuring on-time payments.
• Multi-State Management: Navigate complex payroll requirements across various states, applying tax withholdings, deductions, and benefits accurately.
• ADP System Expertise: Leverage ADP software for processing, reporting, and compliance tracking to streamline operations.
• Advanced Excel Utilization: Develop and apply sophisticated formulas, pivot tables, and macros to validate data, forecast trends, and generate insights.
• Discrepancy Resolution: Investigate and resolve payroll issues swiftly, providing clear communication to employees and stakeholders.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay abreast of federal and state laws, including FLSA, garnishments, and tax updates, to mitigate risks.
• Reporting and Record-Keeping: Produce detailed payroll reports for management, audits, and year-end processes while maintaining impeccable records.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with HR for onboarding/offboarding and finance for reconciliations, fostering integrated operations.
• Audit Support: Prepare documentation and respond to internal/external audits with precision and professionalism.

Required Qualifications

To excel in this Payroll Specialist position, candidates should bring:

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in high-volume, multi-state payroll environments.
• Advanced proficiency in ADP Workforce Now or similar platforms.
• Expert-level Excel skills, including VLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, and data validation.
• In-depth knowledge of U.S. payroll regulations, tax compliance, and benefits administration.
• Proven track record of resolving complex payroll discrepancies under tight deadlines.
• Strong analytical mindset with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills for handling employee inquiries and team collaborations.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field preferred; certifications like CPP or FPC are a plus.
• Adaptability to contract-based work in a dynamic advertising sector.

Robert Half prioritizes candidates who demonstrate reliability, tech-savviness, and a proactive approach to payroll challenges. Background in advertising or media industries is advantageous but not required.

Why Join Us at Robert Half?

Partnering with Robert Half means accessing unparalleled support and opportunities in New York's thriving job market. This Payroll Specialist contract offers a competitive $33.25 hourly rate (approximately $69,160 annually based on full-time hours), with the potential for extensions or temp-to-hire transitions. Enjoy the perks of working in a creative advertising powerhouse, gaining exposure to innovative projects that enhance your resume.

Robert Half provides comprehensive benefits for contractors, including weekly pay, professional development resources, and exclusive access to our vast network of career opportunities. Thrive in a supportive environment where your payroll expertise drives business success. New York, NY, offers an unmatched lifestyle—world-class culture, finance hubs, and professional growth. Apply today to elevate your career with Robert Half's trusted expertise in payroll and HR staffing. Join thousands of professionals who've advanced through our contracts. SEO Keywords: Payroll Specialist jobs New York NY, ADP payroll careers, multi-state payroll specialist, Robert Half contract jobs, high-volume payroll processing.

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