Payroll Specialist

Job purpose

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll in a multi-shift manufacturing environment. This role ensures payroll compliance, conducts audits, maintains data integrity within ADP Workforce Now, and serves as the primary point of contact for payroll-related matters. Limited HR administrative support may be required, primarily related to payroll and benefits upkeep..

Duties and responsibilities

• Process full-cycle payroll for hourly and salaried employees, including shift differentials, overtime, bonuses, and special earnings.
• Review and audit timecards for accuracy and compliance with federal and state wage laws.
• Validate payroll changes including pay rate adjustments, deductions, garnishments, and tax updates.
• Maintain and reconcile payroll 
• Conduct routine payroll audits and identify discrepancies; recommend and implement corrective action.
• Generate payroll reports and support leadership with payroll data analysis.
• Ensure accurate processing of benefit deductions and tax withholdings.
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries professionally and timely.
• Assist with year-end payroll activities including W-2 reconciliation.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll information.
• Maintain employee payroll records within HRIS.
• Support benefit administration updates (enrollment changes, deduction updates, qualifying life events).
• Maintain I-9 documentation and payroll-related compliance records.
• Assist with workers’ compensation and leave tracking documentation as it relates to payroll.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of payroll processing experience required.
• Hands-on experience with ADP Workforce Now & Timeworks (Payroll, Time & Attendance, Benefits, and Reporting modules) preferred 
• Experience working in a 24/7, multi-shift manufacturing environment preferred (500+ employee workforce)
• Strong knowledge of wage and hour compliance, overtime calculations, and payroll tax fundamentals.
• Experience processing garnishments and benefit deductions.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office for payroll reconciliation and reporting.
• Strong auditing skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of integrity and confidentiality.
• Ability to effectively communicate in English (verbal and written) required; Spanish proficiency preferred.

Working conditions

• Must be able to work any/all shifts as directed
• Must be able to work overtime as necessary, including Holidays and/or weekends
• Standing/walking for long period of time
• Must be an avid Safety Champion and adhere to all safety programs and procedures

Physical requirements

• A non-slip resistant work shoe 
• Must be able to work all shifts as directed.
• Pre-shift stretch and exercises to be performed
• Hair restraint, beard net (if needed), and Safety gloves as needed
• All required PPEs are worn properly when working with equipment or chemicals that require personal protection
• Position requires the ability to: stand, sit at a desk, walking around the facility, lifting and carrying up t0 50-LBS unassisted, reaching, kneeling, crawling, and twisting
• Also requires the ability to: see, hear, and communicate with associates as well as others by utilizing professional etiquette 

Direct reports

• None

CandyCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.