Payroll Analyst

About the Position

The Payroll Tax Analyst works on a team of payroll professionals responsible for processing multi-jurisdiction payrolls for 6,000 U.S. employees utilizing Workday payroll, ADP Tax Service and Peoplesoft general ledger software. The role provides high level associate interaction and guidance for payroll tax inquiries, analyzes payroll tax data for various tasks and projects including associate case management, tax production review and reconciliation, process and system testing, validation, reporting and analysis.

The position requires problem solving, focus, engagement, discretion, and confidentiality.

This position requires a hybrid work environment. Baird is not currently hiring individuals who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status.

• Payroll Tax Updates:
  Collaborate with payroll team to update tax changes using effective dates and tax registration information. Implement new and modified processes, update tax rates, and manage documentation. Prepare and analyze production tax reports for payroll tax recording.
• Tax Research and Resolution:
  Research and respond to associate and outside agency inquiries. Proactively contact agencies, vendors, and other resources to assist in problem resolution or tax errors.
• General Ledger Account Entries and Reconciliation:
  Follow documented processes to initiate tax account entries and reconciliation. Initiate process improvements and update documentation. Communicate with other team members and/or teams to ensure account balances are defined and appropriate. Review, research, and collaborate to determine next steps for unreconciled or outstanding balances to ensure accuracy. Compile supporting documentation to substantiate account balances.
• Ancillary and Project Work:
  Actively contribute to initiatives that impact payroll tax, general ledger posting, payroll tax reporting, and payroll tax procedures. Serve as a backup payroll processor for all payroll companies when needed.
• Application and Tax Vendor Support:
  Support payroll tax setup, research, testing, and production processes. Effectively communicate changes to team members and stakeholders. Develop or contribute to user documentation and training materials. Partner with cross‑functional teams to resolve tax issues.

• Minimum three years of continuous experience in a payroll tax environment, including payroll accounting with general accounting knowledge preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong research skills with the ability to identify and apply effective methodologies.
• Demonstrated analytical and problem‑solving skills; takes ownership of issues and solutions.
• Meticulous attention to detail, accuracy, and accountability.
• Commitment to continuous improvement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent responsibilities and deliver results.
• Experience and willingness to work with AI‑generated tools and processes is a plus.

Baird is committed to diversity and provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, military service, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.