Payroll Specialist | Hybrid, Kansas City

This position will be hired within the Kansas City metro and will report into the office 3 days per week.

The Payroll Specialist supports the Payroll team in the accurate and timely processing of payroll for a multi-state, multi-jurisdiction, and international workforce. This role partners closely with Payroll, HR, Benefits, and Finance to ensure payroll transactions are processed accurately, employees receive excellent customer service, and payroll records remain compliant with applicable regulations.

How you'll make an impact

• Support the preparation, review, and processing of biweekly and monthly payrolls for multi-state, multi-jurisdiction, and international employees using Workday.

• Analyze and enter payroll data accurately while assisting with payroll audits and validation activities.

• Support compliance with applicable federal, state, local, and international wage and hour laws.

• Assist with Paid Time Off (PTO) and Time Tracking administration within Workday, including troubleshooting employee questions.

• Audit Canada payroll entries

• Partner with the Benefits team to ensure benefit deductions and 401(k) transactions are processed accurately.

• Assist with the annual 401(k) audit and provide supporting documentation as requested.

• Prepare payroll reports, including payroll summaries, hours worked, PTO balances, tax deductions, and benefit deductions.

• Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely, professional manner and explain payroll questions or discrepancies clearly.

• Participate in payroll process improvement initiatives and assist with special projects as assigned.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Produces accurate work and thoroughly reviews payroll information before processing.

• Maintains confidentiality while handling sensitive employee information.

• Communicates clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.

• Listens actively and works collaboratively with team members to resolve payroll questions and issues.

• Provides clear explanations to employees regarding payroll processes and discrepancies.

• Provides responsive, courteous, and accurate support to employees and internal partners.

• Follows established customer service standards and escalates issues appropriately.

• Works collaboratively with Payroll, HR, Benefits, Finance, and other departments.

• Shares knowledge, supports team goals, and contributes to a positive team environment.

• Demonstrates flexibility by assisting teammates during payroll processing cycles and other peak periods.

• Prioritizes multiple assignments while meeting established payroll deadlines.

• Maintains organized records and adapts to changing priorities.

• Identifies discrepancies, researches payroll issues, and recommends solutions.

• Escalates complex issues appropriately while supporting resolution efforts.

What we're looking for

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and payroll experience.

• Three to five years of payroll experience.

• Experience supporting payrolls for 500+ employees preferred.

• Experience with multi-state payroll required; international payroll experience is a plus.

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret business, technical, and governmental documents.

• Ability to prepare reports, correspondence, and procedural documentation.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain payroll concepts clearly.

• Strong numerical aptitude and attention to detail.

• Proficient in Excel and able to analyze payroll data and identify discrepancies.

• Ability to analyze payroll data, identify inconsistencies, and determine when additional research or escalation is needed.

• Ability to interpret written and verbal instructions and apply established payroll procedures.

• Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel.

• Workday experience preferred but not required.

• Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) a plus but not required.

What you can expect from Optiv

• A company committed to our inclusive value through our Employee Resource Groups

• Work/life balance

• Professional training resources

• Creative problem-solving and the ability to tackle unique, complex projects

• Volunteer Opportunities. “Optiv Chips In” encourages employees to volunteer and engage with their teams and communities.

• The ability and technology necessary to productively work remotely/from home (where applicable)

EEO Statement

Optiv is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age 40 and over, marital status, genetic information, national origin, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

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