Payroll Specialist

Synergy Staffing; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Synergy Staffing is seeking a Payroll Analyst focused on data to ensure accurate processing and actionable insights. You will analyze payroll data, identify trends, and develop recommendations to improve processes while ensuring compliance with regulations.

The role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of payroll systems. You will collaborate with HR, finance, and IT to streamline data flows and support system improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, data analytics, or related field.
• Proven experience with payroll data analysis and data integrity.
• Proficiency in Excel, SQL, and data manipulation tools.
• Familiarity with payroll systems (e.g., SAP, Dayforce, Workday).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Collect, analyze, and validate payroll data for accuracy and compliance.
• Develop reports, dashboards, and metrics to track payroll KPIs.
• Identify trends to drive process improvements and cost savings.
• Collaborate with HR, finance, and IT to gather data requirements.
• Audit payroll data regularly and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare and distribute payroll reports to stakeholders.
• Perform data reconciliations between payroll and other systems.
• Stay updated on payroll regulations and tax laws.
• Support payroll system implementations and testing.
• Handle ad-hoc data requests with data-driven insights.

Skills

Excel

SQL

Data analysis

Payroll systems

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, data analytics, or related field

Tools

SAP

Dayforce

Workday

Job description

The Payroll Analyst with a focus on data plays a critical role in ensuring accurate and timely processing of payroll data while also providing analytical insights and reporting. You will be responsible for analyzing payroll data, identifying trends, and developing actionable recommendations to improve payroll processes. This position requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of payroll systems and data analysis techniques.

Key Duties:

• Collect, analyze, and validate payroll data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with relevant regulations.
• Develop and maintain reports, dashboards, and metrics to track key payroll performance indicators.
• Identify trends and patterns in payroll data to proactively identify areas for process improvement, cost savings, or compliance enhancements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including HR, finance, and IT, to gather data requirements and streamline data flows.
• Conduct regular audits of payroll data to identify discrepancies or errors and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare and distribute payroll reports to stakeholders, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of information.
• Perform data reconciliations between payroll and other systems, investigating and resolving any discrepancies.
• Stay updated with payroll regulations, tax laws, and compliance requirements to ensure data accuracy and adherence to legal standards.
• Support payroll system implementations, upgrades, and enhancements by providing data analysis and testing expertise.
• Assist with ad-hoc data requests and provide data-driven insights to support payroll-related decision making.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, data analytics, or a related field preferred
• Proven experience as a Payroll Analyst or similar role, with a strong focus on data analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of payroll processes, systems, and data management.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools, such as Microsoft Excel, SQL, or other data manipulation software.
• Familiarity with payroll systems (e.g., SAP, Dayforce, Workday) and their data structures.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret and present complex data in a clear and meaningful way.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to data accuracy and integrity.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively convey insights and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Knowledge of payroll regulations, tax laws, and compliance requirements.
• Experience in report/dashboard development and data visualization techniques.
• Experience with data reconciliation and data quality assurance processes.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis techniques and forecasting models is a plus.
• Familiarity with HRIS systems and data integration is advantageous.