Operations Specialist

The Arc of Central Alabama; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arc of Central Alabama in Birmingham is seeking a Payroll Operations Specialist to ensure accurate and timely payroll for all employees. You will manage payroll transactions, maintain employee records, and address payroll inquiries with confidentiality.

You will work with Human Resources and Finance to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, reconcile payroll accounts, prepare reports, and support year-end tasks such as W-2s.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Accounting or related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of payroll processing experience.
• Experience with payroll software and timekeeping systems.
• Knowledge of FLSA and wage-and-hour laws.
• Excellent attention to detail and confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Process payroll bi-weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly.
• Review timesheets, PTO, and adjustments.
• Audit payroll data for accuracy.
• Handle changes: new hires, terminations, wage changes.
• Administer garnishments and deductions.
• Prepare payroll reports for management.
• Coordinate year-end tasks and W-2s.
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries.

Skills

Payroll processing

Timekeeping

Regulatory compliance

Excel

Data integrity

Confidentiality

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Associate degree in Accounting

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

UKG Ready

ADP

Paycom

Workday

Job description

Description

The Payroll Operations Specialist is responsible for ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for all employees. This position manages payroll transactions, maintains employee payroll records, ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, reconciles payroll accounts, and provides support to employees regarding payroll-related inquiries. The specialist works closely with Human Resources, Finance, and department leaders to maintain payroll integrity and confidentiality.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly payroll for all employees.
• Review and verify timesheets, attendance records, PTO balances, and payroll adjustments.
• Audit payroll data to ensure accuracy and completeness before payroll submission.
• Process personnel changes including new hires, terminations, wage changes, transfers, and benefit deductions.
• Administer garnishments, child support orders, tax levies, and other payroll deductions.
• Maintain payroll records and employee earnings histories.
• Reconcile payroll registers, benefit deductions, and payroll-related general ledger accounts.
• Prepare and distribute payroll reports to management and leadership teams.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
• Coordinate year-end processing, including W-2 preparation and distribution.
• Assist with audits, payroll tax filings, and reporting requirements.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, benefits, and payroll policies.
• Work collaboratively with Human Resources to ensure employee data is accurate and current.
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, controls, and efficiencies.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of employee compensation and payroll information.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of payroll principles and payroll tax regulations.
• Experience with payroll systems such as UKG Ready, ADP, Paycom, Paylocity, Workday, or similar platforms.
• Understanding of wage and hour laws, FLSA requirements, and payroll compliance.
• Strong analytical and reconciliation skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet strict payroll deadlines.

Education and Experience
Required:

• Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; equivalent experience may be substituted.
• Minimum of 2 years of payroll processing experience.
• Experience with payroll software and timekeeping systems.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation.
• Experience with multi-state payroll processing.
• Experience in nonprofit, healthcare, or human services organizations.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer work.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 15 pounds.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically.

Work Environment
This position operates in a professional office environment and may include occasional remote work opportunities based on organizational policy.

Requirements

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).
• Strong understanding of clerical procedures, including recordkeeping and filing systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly detail-oriented and organized.
• Ability to manage time efficiently and prioritize tasks while maintaining high standards.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Professional attitude and demeanor.

Skills & Competencies

• The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills, be proficient in administrative tools and software, and possess the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. A commitment to professionalism and confidentiality is essential.

Working Conditions

• This position typically operates in an office environment. The role requires frequent use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines. Occasional travel may be required for meetings or training.

Summary

Diversity, Inclusion, and Equal Opportunity Statement
The Arc of Central Alabama is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, marital status, or any other protected status under federal or state law. We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage veterans and individuals from underrepresented communities to apply.
Join Us
If you're passionate about supporting individuals in a residential setting and want to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to apply and become part of our mission-driven team.