Payroll Analyst

Payroll Analyst

Location: Cottage Grove, MN
Schedule: Full‑time, on‑site

The Payroll Analyst is responsible for end‑to‑end payroll processing for a multi‑state workforce while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role plays a key part in maintaining payroll accuracy, resolving issues, supporting audits, and improving payroll processes and systems.

In addition to core processing responsibilities, the Payroll Analyst will partner closely with HR, Benefits, Finance, and operational leaders and will provide backup support for payroll leadership as needed.

• Process multi‑state payroll accurately and on time using payroll and timekeeping systems
• Review payroll results, reconcile data, and analyze variances prior to final processing
• Maintain employee payroll records including new hires, terminations, pay changes, taxes, and deductions
• Research and resolve payroll and timekeeping discrepancies with accuracy and urgency
• Ensure compliance with payroll‑related laws, regulations, and internal policies
• Respond to employee payroll questions with professionalism and strong customer service
• Generate payroll reports to support reconciliations, audits, and data integrity
• Assist with internal and external audits by preparing documentation and analysis
• Identify recurring issues and recommend process improvements or system enhancements
• Support cross‑training and knowledge sharing within the payroll team
• Provide backup support to payroll leadership as needed

• Minimum of 3+ years of payroll processing experience, including multi‑state payroll
• Experience working with payroll and time & attendance systems
• Strong Excel skills and comfort working with reconciliations and reports
• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Business, HR, or related field
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now and/or UKG

• $30–$40 per hour
• Discretionary annual bonus based on company performance
• Comprehensive benefits package including PTO and retirement savings options