Payroll Analyst

About the Team

Our Human Resources team defies all conventional expectations and is a business-connected solutions provider. The work we do directly aligns with the company’s core areas of focus, and we ensure that associates and leaders are ready to support those strategic objectives. Our HR team is comprised of different departments, including Talent Acquisition, HR business partners, Learning & Development, Compensation & Benefits, and Shared Services.

We enable meaningful careers for all and build our Associate Workplace Experience!

Collaborative Work Environment: At Pet Smart, teamwork and connection are core to how we thrive. This role is based at our Phoenix Home Office, with an expectation of working a minimum of four days in the office each week. In a standard work week, associates may work up to one remote “flex day” (with leader approval). Our hybrid approach is designed to foster strong collaboration while also supporting flexibility and individual success.

This role works in our Phoenix Home Office - visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

Job Summary: The Payroll Analyst supports day-to-day payroll operations, payroll tax compliance, and system accuracy. This role ensures timely and accurate payroll processing while supporting compliance efforts.

• Conduct payroll processing activities to ensure timely and accurate payroll for all employee groups
• Monitor time and attendance systems for completeness and accuracy
• Process off‑cycle payments, retroactive adjustments, and special pay items
• Serve as an escalation point for researching and troubleshooting payroll‑related inquiries

• Ensure accurate calculation, withholding, and payment of federal, state, and local payroll taxes
• Support timely filing of payroll tax returns (e.g., 941s, W‑2s, T‑4s, state/province filings)
• Assist with responding to payroll tax inquiries and resolving tax notices or audits

• Maintain and troubleshoot payroll system configurations
• Participate in testing and implementation of payroll‑related system changes
• Identify and recommend process improvements and automation opportunities

• 3–5+ years of experience processing payroll and/or leading payroll operations
• Multi‑state, international payroll, and payroll tax processing experience required
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment with a high degree of accuracy
• Strong knowledge of multi‑state and federal payroll laws and regulations
• Experience with payroll tax filing requirements and agency interactions
• Proficiency in payroll systems; SAP preferred
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• High level of confidentiality
• Strong customer service orientation
• Eagerness, curiosity, and motivation to continuously learn
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Bachelor’s degree required
• SHRM, PHR, FPC, or CPP certification preferred

• This role requires collaboration, teamwork, and face‑to‑face interaction with colleagues, leaders, and/or clients.
• Being in the office ensures access to leaders, cross‑functional partners, and resources necessary to make timely decisions and drive results.
• On‑site presence in accordance with our Flex Smart policy supports our culture of innovation, mentorship, and engagement, which is integral to our success in developing the best team.
• This is not intended to be an all-inclusive, exhaustive list of all essential job functions for this position. Pet Smart retains the right to change or assign other required job duties to this position.

At Pet Smart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed.

We’re more than a workplace, we’re Team Pet Smart. Together, we grow, collaborate, and challenge ourselves to be the best in all we do. Our culture is built on belonging and shared purpose, where every voice and experience…