About the Payroll Specialist Role at Robert Half

Robert Half is seeking a meticulous and experienced Payroll Specialist to join our client's dynamic team in Seattle, Washington, United States. This long-term contract position offers a competitive hourly rate of $33.25, translating to an annual equivalent of approximately $69,160 (based on a standard 40-hour workweek). As a Payroll Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in managing complex payroll operations for union and non-union employees across multiple states. This role is ideal for professionals passionate about payroll accuracy, compliance, and employee support in a fast-paced environment. With Robert Half's reputation for connecting top talent with premier opportunities, this position provides stability, growth potential, and exposure to cutting-edge payroll systems.

Seattle's thriving job market, combined with the demand for skilled payroll experts, makes this an excellent chance to advance your career. Whether you're an expert in multi-state payroll processing or seasoned in union compliance, this role at Robert Half offers the perfect blend of challenge and reward. Join us to ensure seamless payroll delivery while contributing to organizational success.

Key Responsibilities

• Accurately process bi-weekly or monthly payroll for a diverse workforce, including union and non-union employees spanning multiple states, with rigorous verification of timecards, overtime calculations, wage rates, deductions, garnishments, and benefits contributions.
• Maintain strict compliance with collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), FLSA wage and hour laws, state-specific regulations, and federal tax withholding requirements to mitigate risks and ensure legal adherence.
• Perform detailed payroll reconciliations, proactively investigate variances or discrepancies, and collaborate with employees, supervisors, and management to resolve issues swiftly and accurately.
• Generate comprehensive payroll reports, wage summaries, liability reconciliations, and audit-ready documentation for internal reviews, external audits, and regulatory submissions.
• Partner closely with HR and Finance departments to facilitate seamless employee onboarding, benefits enrollment, terminations, and maintenance of accurate employee records in payroll systems.
• Provide exceptional customer service by responding promptly to employee payroll inquiries via phone, email, or in-person, offering clear guidance on pay stubs, deductions, and tax forms.
• Continuously monitor evolving federal, state, and local payroll legislation, tax codes, and union updates, implementing process enhancements to maintain compliance and efficiency.
• Support critical year-end processes, including W-2 and 1099 form generation, reconciliation of quarterly tax filings, and preparation for IRS audits.

Required Qualifications for Success

To excel as our Payroll Specialist, candidates must bring proven expertise and a commitment to precision. Ideal qualifications include:

• At least 3-5 years of hands-on payroll processing experience, with demonstrated work in union environments and multi-state operations.
• Advanced proficiency in payroll platforms such as ADP Workforce Now, UKG Pro, Paychex, or Ceridian, with the ability to navigate multiple systems seamlessly.
• Comprehensive knowledge of payroll compliance, including FLSA, FICA, state wage laws, union CBAs, and tax regulations across states like Washington, California, and others.
• Exceptional analytical skills for auditing data, identifying errors, and performing reconciliations with minimal supervision.
• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities to interact with employees, HR, finance teams, and external auditors effectively.
• High school diploma required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or HR preferred, along with relevant certifications like CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for reporting, data analysis, and manipulation of large datasets.
• Impeccable attention to detail, ability to handle confidential information, and a proactive approach to problem-solving under deadlines.

Candidates familiar with Seattle's local labor laws and union dynamics will have a distinct advantage.

Why Join Robert Half in Seattle?

Robert Half offers unparalleled benefits for contract professionals, including access to top-tier clients, career coaching, and exclusive job opportunities. This Payroll Specialist role provides long-term stability in Seattle's vibrant economy, with potential for full-time conversion. Enjoy competitive pay, professional growth through compliance training, and a collaborative culture that values work-life balance. Seattle, WA, boasts a booming tech and business scene, making it the perfect backdrop for your payroll career. With Robert Half, you're not just filling a role—you're building a future in payroll excellence. Apply today and elevate your career!

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