Payroll Specialist

Job Title: Payroll Specialist
Reports to: Payroll Manager
Location: Seattle, WA (On-site)
Pay Range: $32.00-$40.87/hr (Non-Exempt)

About Cochran

Light up your career path and join Cochran, a trailblazer in the Pacific Northwest's electrical and technology construction scene. We are at the forefront of fostering innovation in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. As one of the largest woman-owned contractors in the PNW, we take pride in powering innovation, human well-being, and community. Our success is driven by the extraordinary talent of our team members, and we are committed to fostering a workplace where employees thrive.

Since 1954, Cochran has played a major role in designing and installing electrical and technological infrastructure throughout the Pacific Northwest and across the country. With expertise in electrical, security systems, audio/visual, communications, service, and maintenance, our dedication to fresh thinking and proven execution is full-service.

Our values are proven, not explained:

• Be Transparent.
• Be Kind.
• Be Accountable.
• Be Respectful.
• Be Proactive.
• Be Inspired.
• Be Brilliant.

We've brought skylines, arenas, factories, even robots to life. While our technology evolves, our commitment to excellence never wavers. We're ready to light the way, will you join us?

About the Role

As a Payroll Specialist
, you will be responsible for accurately compiling and processing weekly multi-state union payroll in compliance with applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) and Project Labor Agreements (PLAs). This role ensures the timely execution of payroll activities while maintaining strict adherence to regulatory and contractual requirements.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Union & Weekly Payroll Processing -

• Process weekly payroll for union field employees in alignment with electrical CBAs
• Review and reconcile imported hours submitted through the Timecard Program prior to payroll processing
• Prepare and issue paychecks, including adjustments for missed time, bonuses, and layoff checks
• Monitor and verify proper step increases on effective dates for designated classifications (e.g., Material Handlers, Installers)
• Maintain and update all field master files to ensure accuracy and completion

Compliance, Reporting & Recordkeeping -

• Set up new employee records, including out-of-state employees, ensuring accurate tax withholding based on residence and job location
• Process and prepare garnishments and child support orders, initiating payment requests in compliance with legal requirements
• Prepare weekly reports detailing earnings, taxes, and deductions, and distribute them to supervisors as required
• Generate and distribute weekly and hourly payroll reports for supervisors and company-wide use
• Compile and submit monthly employee count reports to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Assist with the preparation and reconciliation of monthly union fringe benefit reports
• Process employment and wage verification requests in a timely and accurate manner
• Input and download payroll positive pay transactions through Key Navigator

In this role, you will have the opportunity to:

• Ensure accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing through strong attention to detail
• Apply effective problem-solving skills by identifying and resolving issues in a timely and proactive manner
• Deliver prompt and courteous service, responding professionally to requests for assistance
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail to ensure quality and precision in day-to-day tasks
• Handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and integrity
• Adapt to changing priorities and unexpected challenges with flexibility and professionalism
• Take ownership of responsibilities, demonstrating reliability, accountability, and consistency

We are looking for someone with the following competencies:

• Associate's degree with a minimum of 4 years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply information from basic documents and write clear, concise correspondence
• Basic math proficiency, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Strong reasoning skills with the ability to follow written, verbal, or diagram-based instructions
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and spreadsheet/accounting software; experience with Vista by Viewpoint preferred
• This position has no supervisory responsibilities

Why Cochran?

Company Benefits

PTO | 401k | Medical, Dental & Vision | Life Insurance | Seven Paid Holidays | Voluntary Benefits | EAP

Other compensation bonuses are eligible.
* Bonus pay based on percentage of salary, adjusted by company and individual performance.

DEIB Statement

Cochran, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender…