Payroll Specialist

Happy Corner Hospitality Group, home to Motek, Yalla, and Sesame Bakery, is a Mediterranean restaurant collective. As a family-owned business committed to enriching Miami's and New York’s food culture, we deliver genuine, thoughtful, and delectable Mediterranean dishes with a focus on freshness and quality ingredients. 

Reports To: Director of HR 

Position Summary 

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for managing weekly payroll processing for employees within a multi-state hospitality operation. This role ensures payroll accuracy, compliance with federal and state regulations, and timely payment for all employees. The ideal candidate has strong payroll experience within the hospitality industry and thrives in a fast-paced environment. 

Responsibilities: 

• Process weekly payroll for multi-state restaurant employees in an accurate and timely manner (12-15 locations) 
• Maintain and update payroll records including new hires, terminations, pay rate changes, tips, bonuses, and deductions 
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations across multiple states 
• Review and reconcile timekeeping records, including overtime and tipped wages 
• Manage benefit deductions, garnishments, and other required withholdings 
• Prepare and submit payroll tax filings and reports 
• Reconcile payroll accounts and assist with journal entries 
• Generate payroll reports for leadership and audits 
• Respond to employee payroll-related inquiries 
• Maintain strict confidentiality of employee and payroll information 

Benefits: 

• Paid time off 
• Wages paid weekly
• Growth opportunities
• 401k savings plans
• Medical, dental and vision insurance (Medical insurance covered 100% by employer)
• Employee discounts
• Free parking

Education & Experience: 

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field required 
• 3+ years of payroll processing experience 
• Experience with multi-unit payroll required 
• Hospitality industry experience (hotel or restaurant) strongly preferred 
• Experience with payroll software (Paylocity, ADP, Paychex, or similar systems) 

Skills & Competencies: 

• Strong knowledge of wage and hour laws, including tipped wage regulations 
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills 
• Ability to manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment 
• Proficiency in payroll systems and Microsoft Excel 
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills