Payroll and Compliance Specialist; Remote

Payroll and Compliance Specialist (Remote)

Position Overview
:
We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Payroll and Compliance Specialist to manage payroll administration and regulatory compliance for a portfolio of clients. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing, advising clients on payroll and wage regulations, supporting system implementations, and identifying opportunities to improve operational efficiency. The ideal candidate is a trusted advisor with strong payroll expertise, excellent problem‑solving skills, and a commitment to delivering responsive, high‑quality client service.

This position works closely with the HR Consulting team to strengthen client relationships and provide solutions aligned with each organization’s business objectives.

Work Arrangement
:
This is a full‑time, remote position for candidates in Chicago, IL.

Professional Responsibilities
:

• Manage payroll processing for assigned clients, ensuring transactions are completed accurately, timely, and in accordance with federal, state, and local requirements.
• Review and reconcile payroll data, investigate discrepancies, and complete month‑end, quarter‑end, and year‑end payroll activities.
• Generate payroll reports and provide records, reconciliations, and supporting documentation for client audits and business needs.
• Serve as a trusted advisor on payroll tax compliance, wage and hour laws, internal controls, and payroll administration best practices.
• Respond to payroll‑related inquiries from clients, employees, and stakeholders while providing timely and accurate resolutions.
• Lead or support payroll and HRIS implementations, system upgrades, vendor coordination, and process improvement initiatives.
• Serve as the primary liaison between clients and payroll technology vendors, providing end‑user support and resolving system‑related issues.
• Identify opportunities to streamline payroll processes, improve accuracy, increase efficiency, and enhance the overall client experience.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships by understanding business objectives and delivering proactive, value‑added support.
• Collaborate with HR Consulting and other internal teams to improve workflows, support client retention, and ensure consistent service delivery.
• Maintain current knowledge of payroll regulations, technology developments, and industry best practices.
• Protect confidential payroll, employee, and client information while exercising appropriate discretion and professional judgment.

Qualifications and Requirements
:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in payroll administration, payroll tax compliance, or a related payroll consulting role.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Comprehensive knowledge of payroll processing, reconciliations, reporting, internal controls, payroll taxes, and wage and hour regulations.
• Experience interpreting and applying federal, state, and local payroll laws and compliance requirements.
• Experience managing payroll for multiple clients, business entities, or employee populations preferred.
• Hands‑on experience with payroll and HRIS platforms required; experience with Rippling and Paylocity preferred.
• Experience supporting payroll system implementations, upgrades, or operational improvement initiatives preferred.
• Strong analytical, project management, and problem‑solving skills with the ability to resolve complex payroll issues.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to explain payroll and compliance topics clearly.
• Strong client service mindset with the ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technology platforms.
• Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation preferred, or willingness to obtain certification.
• Commitment to maintaining…