Senior Payroll Specialist

Overview Senior Payroll Specialist LOCATION: Remote JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: N/A CERTIFICATION: N/A TRAVEL: Less than 5% Astrion is seeking a detail-oriented and compliance driven Senior Payroll Specialist with extensive experience in multi-state payroll processing. This role will help shape a payroll function that is efficient, audit-ready, and centered on delivering an outstanding employee experience. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS 5+ years of payroll and timekeeping experience, with at least 2 years in a senior role Strong knowledge and experience with UKG payroll and Costpoint timekeeping Well versed on federal and multi-state wage hour and laws, tax regulations, and payroll best practices Exceptional attention to detail, with a commitment to accuracy and compliance Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (v-lookups, pivot tables, data analysis) and ability to use it for payroll reconciliations and reporting Hands-on experience with Service Contract Act (SCA) and union payroll processing Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to handle sensitive issues with discretion PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Human Resources or equivalent work experience Experience working within a government contracting environment System testing, implementation and payroll process improvement experience Experience supporting DOL or DCAA audits Payroll certifications such as CPP or FPC Experience mentoring or training other payroll team members RESPONSIBILITIES Process accurate and timely end-to-end payroll across multiple states for 5,000+ employees adhering to varying state and local regulations and wage laws Ensure all payroll transactions are completed with the highest degree of accuracy, including wages, bonuses, deductions, garnishments, and benefits Partner with HR, Benefits, and other key stakeholders to research, resolve, and communicate resolutions for employee payroll-related inquiries Maintain payroll controls and perform regular audits and exception reporting, to proactively prevent errors Assist with internal and external audits, including those conducted by Department of Labor (DOL) and Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), by providing accurate payroll records, reports, and documentation. Oversee employee profile accuracy, managing state/local withholdings, garnishments and other deductions Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy Champion a positive employee experience by ensuring responsiveness and clear communication in all payroll related matters Mentor and develop junior payroll staff providing training, guidance and knowledge sharing on multi-state regulations and system best practices; foster a culture of accuracy, accountability and continuous improvement What We Offer Competitive salaries Continuing education assistance Professional development allotment Multiple healthcare benefits packages 401K with employer matching Competitive time off policy along with a federally recognized holiday schedule Who We Are At Astrion, we innovate, elevate, and shape the world of tomorrow. At our core is our purpose to “Be the Difference”. This means we encourage our employees to take action and be the driving force for positive change. We foster an environment where innovative solutions flourish, and our company continuously evolves. We have a culture of care, empathy, and making a tangible difference within our organization and communities. We embrace continuous learning, growth, and innovation, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We promote collaboration and empowering our teams is at the core of our success. Be the Difference Astrion offers comprehensive services that boost preparedness, optimize performance, and ensure success across various domains, from Cyber to Digital, Mission and Systems, servicing our nation's Civilian, Defense and Space communities. We support customers with Centers of Excellence in Washington DC, and Huntsville, AL with an additional 36 locations across the U.S. Join Astrion and Be the Difference in your career and the world!