Payroll Specialist — Accurate, SOX‑Savvy & Data‑Driven

Optimum; Plano (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Optimum in Plano, TX is seeking a Payroll Specialist to ensure accurate, on-time payroll processing in full compliance with federal, state, and local wage and tax laws. You will manage payroll data, run reports, and support leaders with time entry approvals and payroll inquiries.

The role requires strong Excel skills, experience with SAP/SuccessFactors or ADP Smart Compliance, and a client-service mindset capable of handling multiple tasks under pressure.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required; Some college or Associate’s degree preferred.
• 3+ years of experience with SAP/Successfactors payroll, preferred
• 3+ years of experience with ADP Smart Compliance, preferred
• Technical skills in payroll processing, reporting, audit of timekeeping, and SOX controls
• Proficient in Office 365, especially MS Excel
• Exemplary client service orientation
• Strong data analysis and research skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines while managing multiple tasks

Responsibilities

• Data Collection & Verification: Gather and audit employee timesheets, hours worked, deductions, and status changes (new hires, terminations).
• Processing & Distribution: Prepare and issue paychecks or direct deposits; distribute pay statements and year-end forms.
• Provide support and assist leaders with time entry approval and Time and Labor and delegation questions.
• Employee Support: Respond to payroll inquiries with clarity and confidentiality.
• Regulatory Updates: Stay current with changes in payroll legislation.
• Ensure company policies are followed and adhered to relating to payroll processing for accurate payment and SOX purposes.
• Evaluate trends and recommend solutions; perform routine audits to validate pay components are enter properly to ensure accurate payment.
• Coordinate with the HR Technology team to troubleshoot payroll processing issues.
• May support the processing of bi-weekly payroll cycles and expedites off-cycle payroll runs as required.
• Troubleshoots all payroll issues and exceptions, addressing and resolving any issues in a timely manner; exercises sound judgment as to when to elevate issues to Payroll leadership.
• Works closely with Payroll leadership to update and maintain critical audits, alerts and reviews.
• Develop queries/reports for projects and ongoing business needs with minimal direction.
• Assist with payroll testing as needed.

Skills

Data analysis

SOX controls

Client service

Multitasking under pressure

Time entry support

Education

High School Diploma

Some college/Associate’s degree preferred

Tools

SAP/SuccessFactors payroll

ADP Smart Compliance

Office 365

MS Excel

Job description

Optimum in Plano, TX is seeking a Payroll Specialist to ensure accurate, on-time payroll processing in full compliance with federal, state, and local wage and tax laws. You will manage payroll data, run reports, and support leaders with time entry approvals and payroll inquiries.

The role requires strong Excel skills, experience with SAP/SuccessFactors or ADP Smart Compliance, and a client-service mindset capable of handling multiple tasks under pressure.