Job Title: Senior Payroll Specialist Job Description The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for overseeing all aspects of payroll processing, compliance, and reporting. This role requires a deep understanding of payroll systems, tax regulations, and reconciliation processes. The Payroll Specialist will utilize advanced capabilities in Finance and related modules, as well as the Synoptix report writer, to ensure payroll operations are executed efficiently, accurately, and in a timely manner. Payroll reconciliation and compliance are considered the most critical aspects of this role. Responsibilities + Manage and ensure the accuracy of bi-weekly and monthly payroll processing, including year-end payroll reporting. + Oversee payroll tax filings and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. + Lead payroll audits and support external audit processes related to payroll. + Provide payroll-related guidance to the executive director, finance team, and other stakeholders. + Collaborate with HR and finance departments to ensure proper classification of employees and compensation. + Maintain and update payroll systems and ensure data integrity across platforms. + Prepare payroll-related reports for internal use and external stakeholders. + Monitor and reconcile payroll accounts to ensure accuracy and resolve discrepancies. + Stay current on payroll laws, regulations, and best practices to ensure ongoing compliance. + Support budgeting and forecasting efforts by providing payroll data and analysis. Essential Skills + Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel. + Experience in payroll processing and reconciliation. + Knowledge of compliance and reporting requirements. + Ability to maintain and manage payroll records. + Experience with audit and documentation processes. + Familiarity with payroll systems and database management. + Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Bachelor’s degree in Business, Accounting, or related field preferred but not required. + 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in payroll management, ideally within a non-profit or higher education setting. + Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies (e.g., Finance and Synoptix). + Experience supervising and reviewing the work of others. + Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. + Ability to work independently and manage tasks with minimal supervision. + Ability to perform under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively. Work Environment Position is based off a 37.5 hour work week. After training, there is an option to work from home one day a week, subject to approval. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Columbia, Maryland. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $33.00 - $41.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a hybrid position in Columbia,MD. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Sep 3, 2025. About Aston Carter: Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com (%20astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com) for other accommodation options.