Payroll Specialist - Muskegon Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Muskegon (MI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Muskegon, MI is seeking an experienced Payroll Specialist to join our network of manufacturing-focused clients. This role handles bi-weekly payroll, timekeeping, deductions, and tax filings, with an emphasis on accuracy and regulatory compliance.

Ideal candidates have 3+ years of payroll experience in manufacturing, proficiency with HRIS/Payroll systems such as ADP Workforce Now, UKG Pro, or Workday, and a solid understanding of multi-state payroll rules and GL

Qualifications

• 3+ years of payroll processing experience in a manufacturing/industrial setting.
• Proficient with enterprise HRIS/payroll systems (ADP/UKG/Workday).
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, local payroll regulations (FLSA, tax).
• Experience with multi-state payroll and varying pay structures.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll for hourly and salaried employees.
• Manage timekeeping and review hours for policy and compliance.
• Calculate and process payroll deductions (taxes, benefits, garnishments, 401k).
• Reconcile payroll accounts and GL entries; resolve discrepancies.
• Prepare and file payroll taxes and year-end reporting (W-2s).
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries and coordinate with HR/Finance.

Skills

Payroll processing

Regulatory compliance

Timekeeping

Attention to detail

Communication

Tools

ADP Workforce Now

UKG Pro

Workday

Job description

Payroll Specialist | Muskegon, MI

Salary Range: $50,000 - $77,000 depending on experience

Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for excelling in payroll specialist? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We partner with leading manufacturing companies in Muskegon, seeking experienced Payroll Specialists to strengthen their teams.

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 Muskegon 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 bi-weekly payroll for hourly and salaried employees, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Manage timekeeping system and review employee hours for compliance with company policies and labor laws.
• Calculate and process payroll deductions, including taxes, benefits, garnishments, and 401k contributions.
• Reconcile payroll accounts and general ledger entries, identifying and resolving discrepancies.
• Prepare and submit payroll tax filings (federal, state, and local) and year-end reporting (W-2s).
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll, deductions, and timekeeping.
• Collaborate with HR and finance departments to ensure seamless payroll operations.

Recommended Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience processing payroll for a manufacturing or industrial organization.
• Demonstrated proficiency with an enterprise-level HRIS/Payroll system (e.g., ADP Workforce Now, UKG Pro, Workday).
• In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including FLSA, wage and hour laws, and tax compliance.
• Experience with multi-state payroll processing and varying pay structures (e.g., hourly, salary, shift differentials, overtime).
• Strong understanding of payroll accounting principles and general ledger reconciliation.

Bonus Qualifications

• Additional certifications or training

Job Titles That Should Apply

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

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.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.