JOB DESCRIPTION: PAYROLL ANALYST Position/Title: Payroll Analyst Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt Reports to: Human Resources & Payroll Manager GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION: The Payroll Analyst handles a variety of complex accounting reconciliations in relation to payroll, benefit and compensation accounts. This position also designs and maintains a database to organize, collect and retrieve data into required reporting formats. The Payroll Analyst will maintain payroll-related accounts and is responsible for the reconciliation and accuracy of one or more accounts within a complex accounting system. Must prepare various accounting papers and summaries. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Complete payroll and benefit journal entries and work through reconciling differences. Perform internal audits and reconciliations on Human Resource, Payroll and Benefit data. Researching and advising on relevant state and federal laws to ensure the organization remains compliant with its compensation policies. Analyzing a company's remuneration structures and policies and implementing improvements. Researching employee salaries and recommending changes based on findings. Planning and communicating best practices for evaluating and compensating employees. Researches and advises payroll staff concerning the accounting treatment of complex transactions. Reconcile and balance numerous commission years between Payroll and Accounting systems. Evaluates and tracks various compensation programs, sales programs and salary structures. Perform audit and analysis of commission reports to sales programs and enter adjustments as needed. Research and resolve escalated payroll tax notices. Produce necessary schedules and documentation for applicable audits (i.e: workers comp, year-end close, 415 Limits, tax agency, etc.). Understand and comply with the Qualified and Non-Qualified Compensation Plans and commission structures (401K, K Plus, Deferred Compensation, etc.). Perform 401(k) administration as required per Internal Revenue Service and Department of Labor regulations. Monthly audit of Benefit Invoices to Payroll system. Accomplishes special project results by identifying and clarifying issues and priorities; communicating and coordinating requirements; expediting fulfillment; evaluating milestone accomplishments; evaluating optional courses of action; changing assumptions and direction. Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements, including tax laws, wage and hour laws and other payroll-related regulations. Leverage reporting and analytics to measure success and identify improvement opportunities. Contributes to the overall success of the department by performing all other duties and responsibilities as assigned, acting as a back-up for other positions as needed, maintaining high levels of accuracy, maintaining a professional demeanor and appropriate levels of confidentiality, and providing excellent customer service. Takes part in year-end process including preparing, auditing and distributing W-2's. Assists in the development of new processes and procedures. Performs all other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: 5+ years of Payroll/Accounting experience is preferred. Possession of at least a high school diploma is required and a post-secondary degree or college classes in Accounting or Human Resources is preferred. Experience with ADP WorkForceNow, or comparable technology, required. Demonstrated aptitude for critical thinking, problem-solving, time management skills, strong interpersonal skills, documentation skills, organizational skills and multi-tasking skills are essential. Must be results-orientated and able to work both independently and within a team environment. Adherence to health and safety regulations (e.g. use of protective gear)