Payroll Lead: Multistate & Workday Expert

Talentify; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) Retirement Plan

Life Insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Aston Carter is seeking a Lead Payroll Specialist to act as the functional expert and operational lead for payroll across multiple states. You will ensure accuracy, resolve complex issues, and partner with HR, Finance, and leadership.

Responsibilities include biweekly payroll processing, W-2 handling, and tax compliance, with a hybrid Chicago-based schedule. Prior Workday Payroll and CPP designation are preferred, with NetSuite experience a plus.

Qualifications

• 10–15 years of payroll experience, including lead experience.
• Deep expertise in multi-state payroll processing and compliance with federal/state regulations.
• Hands-on Workday Payroll experience strongly preferred.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation preferred.
• Experience with NetSuite or similar general ledger systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Own and execute biweekly multi-state payroll processing for exempt and nonexempt employees across multiple legal entities.
• Maintain payroll data integrity by collecting, auditing, calculating, and entering payroll information with high accuracy.
• Serve as primary escalation point for complex payroll questions and year-end processing, including W-2 preparation and adjustments.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including FLSA and wage/hour laws.
• Manage payroll tax obligations, including state registrations and resolving notices with third-party providers.
• Partner with HR, Finance, and leadership to support onboarding, offboarding, and compensation changes.
• Develop and maintain payroll reporting and analytics for leadership needs.
• Reconcile monthly payroll bank transactions and assist month-end close.

Skills

Workday Payroll

Multi-state payroll

Analytical skills

Excel proficiency

Tools

NetSuite

Job description

Aston Carter is seeking a Lead Payroll Specialist to act as the functional expert and operational lead for payroll across multiple states. You will ensure accuracy, resolve complex issues, and partner with HR, Finance, and leadership.

Responsibilities include biweekly payroll processing, W-2 handling, and tax compliance, with a hybrid Chicago-based schedule. Prior Workday Payroll and CPP designation are preferred, with NetSuite experience a plus.