Payroll Analyst Senior - Anywhere in the USA (Atlanta, GA, US, 30309)

Job Summary

The Senior Payroll Analyst is responsible for executing accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for the organization. This role serves as a payroll subject matter expert, ensuring data integrity, maintaining strong internal controls, and partnering with HR, Finance, and operational teams to support a seamless associate experience. The Senior Payroll Analyst also contributes to ongoing process improvement, technology optimization, and payroll reporting to support business operations and HR Shared Services (HRSS) goals.

Key Tasks & Responsibilities (Essential Functions)

Payroll Processing & Operations

• Manage the full payroll cycle with a high degree of independence, ensuring payroll is processed accurately, on time, and in compliance with applicable wage and hour requirements.
• Review and evaluate payroll data, including hours, earnings, deductions, retro pay, and special payments; identify issues, determine appropriate corrections, and resolve discrepancies.
• Evaluate payroll exceptions and make decisions regarding off‑cycle payrolls and pay adjustments, considering compliance risk, operational impact, and employee experience.
• Interpret and apply payroll‑related tax, benefits, and garnishment requirements, addressing non‑routine or complex situations and recommending appropriate solutions.
• Maintain oversight of employee pay records and payroll system data, approving corrections and improvements to support accuracy, consistency, and compliance.
• Act as a payroll subject matter resource, providing guidance to HR, Finance, and management on payroll practices and related compliance considerations.

Compliance, Controls & Audit

• Ensure payroll operations adhere to all federal, state, and local regulations.
• Maintain and document payroll controls in alignment with SOX and internal audit requirements.
• Prepare audit support and reconciliations, and regulatory filings.
• Monitor Prepare for legislation changes and recommend required updates.

Reporting, Reconciliation & Analytics

• Prepare and analyze payroll reports for HR, Finance, and leadership.
• Reconcile payroll results, identify discrepancies, and perform root-cause analysis.
• Support year-end activities including W-2 validation, tax balancing, and reporting.
• Provide insights and recommendations based on payroll trends and data.

Systems, Process Optimization & Projects

• Partner with HRIS and HRSS teams on system enhancements, configuration updates, and testing.
• Improve payroll processes to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and associate experience.
• Support implementation of new technology, automation, or workflow changes.
• Contribute to payroll documentation, SOP updates, and knowledge management.

Customer Service, Collaboration & Stakeholder Support

• Serve as an escalation point for complex payroll inquiries from associates and HR partners.
• Work closely with HR Business Partners, Total Rewards, Workforce Management, and Finance teams.
• Provide training, guidance, and support to HRSS colleagues on payroll procedures

Skills and Minimum Experience Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field preferred.
• 4+ years of payroll processing experience in a mid-to-large organization.
• Strong understanding of payroll regulations, wage and hour laws, and multi-state payroll.
• Experience with Workday, SAP, UKG, ADP, or similar platforms strongly preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• High proficiency in Excel and payroll reconciliation techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential data.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment.
• CPP or equivalent certification preferred; multilingual ability (Spanish or French) a plus.
• Occasional travel