Senior Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist (HR Analyst – Payroll & Benefits) is a payroll-focused role supporting accurate and compliant payroll operations for more than 3,000 employees nationwide. Working closely with the Payroll Manager, this position is responsible for day-to-day payroll processing, tax compliance, and related reporting activities, while providing secondary support for benefits administration. The role requires familiarity with Dayforce payroll software, strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage high-volume, multi-state payroll in a fast-paced environment. Experience, qualification, and soft skills, have you got everything required to succeed in this opportunity Find out below. Job Title: Payroll Specialist (HR Analyst – Payroll & Benefits) Department: Human Resources Location: Southfield, MI 48076 Work Schedule: On-site 5 days per week; hybrid schedule available during non-payroll weeks. Employment Terms: 6-month contract to hire Visa Status: USC or GC only, the client is unable to sponsor any visas at this time Job Summary: The HR Analyst – Payroll & Benefits will directly support the Payroll Manager in daily payroll processing while also assisting with tax compliance and benefits administration. This role ensures accurate and timely payroll operations, adherence to tax regulations, and coordination of employee benefits. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of payroll systems, tax laws, and benefits-related processes. In the absence of the Payroll Manager, the HR Analyst – Payroll & Benefits will be responsible for processing and submitting payroll in Dayforce. Key Responsibilities : Payroll Processing: Assist in supporting bi-weekly payrolls, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies and government regulations. Assists in maintaining payroll records, updating employee information, and processing new hires, terminations, and status changes in the Dayforce HRIS Review and verify timesheets, wage calculations, overtime, and deductions. Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll, earnings, and deductions from AH communities Assist in processing bonuses, commissions, and retro pay adjustments in Dayforce Assist with any issues associated with Dayforce Wallet Tax Compliance & Reporting: Assist in the preparation and filing of payroll tax returns, including federal, state, and local taxes. Ensure payroll tax withholdings and payments are processed accurately and on time. Stay updated on tax laws and regulations to ensure compliance. Support year-end tax reporting, including W-2s and other required documentation. Benefits Administration Support: Assist in processing employee benefits deductions, ensuring accuracy in payroll. Work closely with HR Business partners to ensure benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations are reflected in payroll. Provide support in reconciling payroll benefits deductions with vendor invoices. Assist employees with benefits-related payroll questions. Other : Ensure timely processing of daily mail, including critical time sensitive documents Assist in submitting garnishments and Friends of the Court information to Dayforce Garnishment Services for accurate deductions Assist and partner with HR Business Partner with payroll and benefits set up activities associated with the: onboarding of new employees from new community acquisitions offboarding of current employee due to divestitures Qualifications & Skills: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred). 2+ years of experience in payroll processing, tax compliance, or benefits administration. Strong knowledge of payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Dayforce, Paycom, Workday, etc.) and tax regulations. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and HRIS systems. Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills. Ability to handle confidential information with integrity. xrczosw Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Strong customer service skills