Senior Payroll Specialist

WHO WE ARE

We are PEAK6, a leading investment firm, using technology to find a better way of doing things. The company’s first tech‑based solution was developed in 1997 to optimize options trading, and over the past two decades, the same formula has been used across a range of industries, asset classes, and business stages to consistently deliver superior results. Today, PEAK6 seeks transformational opportunities to provide capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs and forward‑thinking businesses.

PEAK6’s core brands include PEAK6 Capital Management, PEAK6 Strategic Capital, Apex Fintech Solutions, FOCUS, We Insure, Evil Geniuses, Poker Power, Zogo, and Bruce Markets.

PEAK6 is a leading investment firm headquartered in Chicago. More than 20 years ago, we were one of the first firms to develop sophisticated proprietary technology in our trading business. Today we leverage our technical ingenuity and operational ability across a number of investment areas, spanning early‑to‑mid‑stage growth capital, operational control, trading, and sports management, with an eye toward providing value to the customer.

Over the years, we have built and operated several leading financial technology firms and today our team includes a proprietary trading firm, a digital wealth clearinghouse, an outsource provider of flood insurance, a value investment arm, an incubation lab, and more.

As a member of the payroll team at PEAK6, you’ll have a big impact on the firm by adding your payroll and analytical experience to our organization and employees in a rapidly growing environment and team. Additionally, our diverse business streams afford you the unique opportunity to grow across a variety of verticals, engaging you in unique challenges, projects, and technologies.

Process bi‑weekly multi‑state and multiple location payroll for exempt and non‑exempt populations via Workday.

Maintain payroll information by collecting, calculating, and entering data into the payroll system.

Administer all payroll tax‑related tasks including registering for new states, closing old accounts, and resolving all tax notices with third‑party payroll systems.

Support the payroll manager with year‑end W‑2 preparation including processing, balancing, adjustments, and amendments.

Work directly with external auditors to provide requested information for annual audits.

Collaborate with internal partners in Human Resources and Finance to facilitate and improve payroll processes.

Partner with Treasury to ensure accurate funding requirements for payroll, taxes, benefits, and related items. Develop ad‑hoc financial and operational reporting as needed.

Update and reconcile monthly payroll bank transactions.

Participate in financial month‑end close, including preparation of accruals, booking of payroll journal entries, and reconciliation of GL accounts.

Utilize technology to drive continuous improvement to PEAK6’s payroll processes, reports, and controls.

5+ years of experience in a fast‑paced payroll environment exhibiting proficiency in all aspects of day‑to‑day payroll operations under the financial umbrella.

Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a high level of attention to detail and accuracy.

Working knowledge of federal and state payroll policies, including FLSA laws, overtime, and termination regulations.

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) designation is a plus.

Working knowledge of Workday and related reporting tools.

Familiarity with general accounting principles and accounting systems;
Net Suite experience is a plus.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and payroll software programs.

A tech‑forward approach to managing day‑to‑day tasks — we love to automate and make things more efficient, and so should you.

Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.

We offer a robust package of employee perks and benefits, including healthcare benefits (medical, dental and vision, EAP), competitive PTO, 401k match, parental leave, and HSA contribution…