Senior Payroll Specialist

PEAK6; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 79,000 - 98,750; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision benefits

401(k) match

Paid Calm app subscription

Generous learning and tuition reimbursement

Job summary

PEAK6 is looking for a Sr Payroll Specialist in Chicago who will significantly impact payroll by applying their expertise in a dynamic environment. This role involves processing multi-state payroll, maintaining payroll data, and collaborating on continuous improvement efforts.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in payroll operations, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in Workday, along with benefits including a competitive salary of $79,000-$98,750 and generous PTO.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in payroll operations.
• Knowledge of federal and state payroll policies.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly multi-state payroll.
• Maintain payroll information and tax tasks.
• Support year-end W-2 preparation and audits.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Proficiency in Workday

Microsoft Office

Payroll software proficiency

Tech-forward mindset

Education

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC)

Tools

Workday

NetSuite

Job description

PEAK6 Sr Payroll Specialist

As a member of the payroll team at PEAK6, you will have a big impact by applying payroll and analytical experience to a rapidly growing environment. You will support multiple payroll streams and collaborate on continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly multi-state and multi-location payroll for exempt and non-exempt employees via Workday.
• Maintain payroll information: collect, calculate, and enter data into the payroll system.
• Administer all payroll tax tasks including state registrations, account closures, and resolution of tax notices with third‑party payroll systems.
• Support payroll manager with year‑end W‑2 preparation, balancing, adjustments, and amendments.
• Work with external auditors to provide information for annual audits.
• Collaborate with Human Resources and Finance to facilitate and improve payroll processes.
• Partner with Treasury to ensure accurate funding of payroll, taxes, benefits, and related items; develop ad hoc financial and operational reporting.
• Update and reconcile monthly payroll bank transactions.
• Participate in month‑end close: accrue payroll journal entries, reconcile GL accounts.
• Utilize technology to drive continuous improvement of payroll processes, reports, and controls.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in a fast‑paced payroll environment covering all day‑to‑day payroll operations.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.
• Working knowledge of federal and state payroll policies (FLSA laws, overtime, termination regulations).
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) is a plus.
• Proficiency in Workday and related reporting tools.
• Familiarity with general accounting principles and accounting systems; NetSuite experience is a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and payroll software programs.
• Tech‑forward mindset: automate tasks and improve efficiency.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, prioritize, and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.

Rewards

• Competitive base salary: $79,000‑$98,750 (plus potential annual discretionary bonus).
• Health, dental, and vision benefits, EAP.
• Competitive PTO.
• 401(k) match and HSA contribution match.
• Parental leave.
• Paid Calm app subscription and generous learning and tuition reimbursement benefits.
• Hybrid work: remote up to two days per week.

EEO Statement

PEAK6 is an equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.