Payroll Specialist

Aston Carter is partnering with a reputable client in the Kansas City area that is looking to hire a Payroll Specialist. This position is contract‑to‑hire, with a target conversion rate around $31/hour
. Candidates must have 4+ years of payroll processing experience within a large company.

As a Sr. Payroll Specialist, you will leverage your comprehensive knowledge of payroll functions to process, report, and manage payroll operations in compliance with wage and hour laws, taxation, and best practices. You will work under limited supervision to conduct timely and accurate payroll activities for employees on various pay cycles. Your expertise will also support other team members and serve as an informal resource on payroll‑related issues and projects.

• Administer end‑to‑end payroll operations for multiple federal IDs, including data entry, payroll processing, multi‑state tax compliance, timekeeping activities, auditing, and reporting.
• Compile, input, audit, and verify additional data for final payroll processing, W‑2s, and corrections.
• Stay informed on legislation and regulatory changes impacting payroll and assist with implementation.
• Collaborate with the Sr. Tax Specialist to resolve payroll tax issues with federal, state, and local agencies.
• Address high volumes of payroll‑related inquiries while maintaining confidentiality.
• Assist payroll coordinators at field locations and ensure they are trained in all payroll aspects.
• Work closely with human resources representatives on payroll‑related inquiries and procedures.
• Assist in testing payroll system enhancements, improvements, integrations, or conversions.
• Maintain accurate payroll records and ensure compliance with record‑keeping requirements.
• Follow internal controls to prevent fraud or errors in payroll processing.
• Generate and distribute various payroll reports as needed.
• Assist with internal or external audits.
• Complete monthly, quarterly, and year‑end tasks accurately and timely.
• Support merger and acquisition activities and assist with payroll system setups.
• Collaborate on projects with project managers and team members, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.

• 4-6 years of progressive payroll experience in a multi‑state environment.
• Advanced knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations, tax laws, and wage and hour laws.
• 2-3 years of experience with ADP Enterprise.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and Word.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational, analytical, time management, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to handle competing priorities and sensitive issues with discretion and confidentiality.

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Fundamental Payroll Certification preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure, and often changing environment.
• Strong initiative with the ability to set priorities and follow procedures without close supervision.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

The position is based in a modern, open environment in a new building. After training, a flexible work setup is available with three days in the office and two remote days. The role may require 5-10 hours of overtime per week. The facility offers a cafeteria with affordable lunch options and a cookies & milk bar.

This is a Contract position based out of Kansas City, KS.

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre‑tax and Roth post‑tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long‑term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

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