Payroll Specialist - Grand Rapids Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 51,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Grand Rapids is seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist to join our manufacturing-focused network. You will process weekly payroll for hourly and salaried staff, ensure timely filings and accurate deductions, and support timekeeping and compliance.

This role offers exposure to multiple partner companies, with activities spanning general ledger reconciliation, payroll tax reporting, and responding to employee inquiries.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience processing multi-state payroll for 500+ employees, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with payroll software (e.g., ADP Workforce Now, UKG Pro) and timekeeping systems.
• Strong understanding of federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations and compliance requirements.
• Experience with general ledger reconciliation for payroll accounts.
• Ability to interpret and apply collective bargaining agreements or complex pay structures specific to manufacturing operations.

Responsibilities

• Process weekly payroll for hourly and salaried employees, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Manage timekeeping systems and ensure proper application of pay rules, including overtime and shift differentials.
• Administer payroll deductions, including taxes, benefits, garnishments, and 401k contributions.
• Reconcile payroll data and prepare related journal entries for general ledger posting.
• Prepare and submit federal and state payroll tax filings and reports.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, and timekeeping.
• Maintain accurate payroll records and ensure compliance with company policies and regulations.

Skills

Multi-state payroll

Manufacturing payroll experience

Timekeeping accuracy

Tools

ADP Workforce Now

UKG Pro

Timekeeping systems

Job description

Payroll Specialist | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $51,000 - $78,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for excelling in payroll specialist? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Payroll Specialists.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Payroll Specialists. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Process weekly payroll for hourly and salaried employees, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Manage timekeeping systems and ensure proper application of pay rules, including overtime and shift differentials.
• Administer payroll deductions, including taxes, benefits, garnishments, and 401k contributions.
• Reconcile payroll data and prepare related journal entries for general ledger posting.
• Prepare and submit federal and state payroll tax filings and reports.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, and timekeeping.
• Maintain accurate payroll records and ensure compliance with company policies and regulations.

Recommended Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience processing multi-state payroll for 500+ employees, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency with payroll software (e.g., ADP Workforce Now, UKG Pro) and timekeeping systems.
• Strong understanding of federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations and compliance requirements.
• Experience with general ledger reconciliation for payroll accounts.
• Ability to interpret and apply collective bargaining agreements or complex pay structures specific to manufacturing operations.

Bonus Qualifications

• Additional certifications or training

Job Titles That Should Apply

Payroll Specialist, Payroll Administrator, Payroll Coordinator, Payroll Clerk, Payroll Assistant, HR & Payroll Specialist, Senior Payroll Specialist, Payroll Analyst, Payroll Manager

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.