Senior Payroll Specialist

Precise Systems, Inc.; Reston (VA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Precise Systems, Inc. is seeking a Senior Payroll Specialist to join our team. This full-time role focuses on accurate payroll processing, collaboration with HR, and timely reporting for government-contracting clients.

The role requires 5+ years of payroll experience, expertise with ADP and Deltek CostPoint, and U.S. Citizenship. A hybrid work arrangement with in-office Tuesdays and Wednesdays is included, supporting a dynamic, compliant environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business or finance required or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of payroll processing in a government contracting environment required.
• Experience with ADP and Deltek CostPoint required.
• Experience with multiple payroll processing cycles.
• ERP systems experience required.
• U.S. Citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Ensures all assigned payrolls are processed accurately and timely.
• Assists with new hire set up in the payroll system of record.
• Assists with out-processing of employees through the payroll systems.
• Generates payroll reports, including any fiscal and reporting requirements from funding sources and benefit administration.
• Assist with the timesheet correction process.
• Calculate and submit various accounting and payroll adjustments such as separation/termination.
• Research resolve payroll issues for all employees, hourly and salary.
• Works proactively to collaborate with HR team.
• Assists with Workers Comp calculations.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Regulatory knowledge

Mentoring

Data analysis

Organization skills

Security clearance

Problem solving

Government contracting familiarity

Education

Bachelor's degree in business or finance

Tools

ADP

Deltek CostPoint

ERP systems

Job description

Precise Systems delivers integrated, mission-ready solutions that advance warfighter readiness and strengthen our nation’s most critical defense programs. Through the power of our combined capabilities, we provide deep expertise in Advanced Engineering; Digital Transformation; Electromagnetic Warfare; Interactive Training & Simulation; Physical Sciences Research; Platform Lifecycle Support; and Foreign Military Sales. Unified by decades of trusted performance and expanded through strategic growth, our team applies innovative technologies, engineering rigor, and customer-focused execution to solve complex challenges and accelerate mission success. Guided by our commitment to partnership, precision, and performance, we deliver the scalable solutions and technical excellence our customers depend on—today and into the future.

Precise Systems is seeking a dedicated Senior Payroll Specialist to join our team. This full-time, regular position is ideal for a professional looking to establish a career in payroll management within a dynamic and supportive environment. As a Payroll Specialist, you will be responsible for ensuring accurate processing and recording of the company’s payroll, providing timely and accurate financial information, and participating in daily data entry payroll processing.

This role will require you to work closely with the HR department to ensure smooth payroll transactions and to address any discrepancies or queries related to payroll. Your attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive information confidentially will be crucial in maintaining the integrity of the payroll system.

Hybrid/Remote Delivery: Tuesdays and Wednesdays in office

Duties

• Ensures all assigned payrolls are processed accurately and timely
• Assists with new hire set up in the payroll system of record
• Assists with out-processing of employees through the payroll systems
• Generates payroll reports, including any fiscal and reporting requirements from funding sources and benefit administration
• Assist with the timesheet correction process
• Calculate and submit various accounting and payroll adjustments such as separation/termination
• Research resolve payroll issues for all employees, hourly and salary
• Works proactively to collaborate with HR team
• Assists with Workers Comp calculations

Required Education

• Bachelor's Degree in a business or finance discipline preferred

Required Experience

• 5 or more years of payroll processing in a government contracting environment
• Strong experience with ADP and Deltek CostPoint
• Experience with multiple payroll processing cycles
• ERP Systems experience

Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required.

Precise Systems values employee contributions, promotes diverse opportunities for professional growth, and prioritizes overall well-being. Our comprehensive professional services benefits package includes health insurance, life and accidental death and dismemberment coverage, disability insurance, retirement plans, holiday pay, employee-managed leave, and professional growth opportunities.

Precise Systems is dedicated to a shared vision and core values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility, which foster innovation and drive our continued success in the global marketplace. Precise Systems and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, status as an individual with a disability, or any legally protected status under federal, state, or local law. Precise Systems participates in E-Verify.

Required Skills

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to interpret complex data and develop actionable insights
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare and deliver professional briefings and reports
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and with senior leadership
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards, regulations, and best practices within the area of specialization
• Ability to mentor and guide junior team members and contribute to a positive team culture
• Experience with data analysis tools and methodologies
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance if required by project needs
• Problem-solving skills with a proactive and solutions-oriented mindset
• Familiarity with government contracting environments and associated compliance requirements

Required Experience

• Minimum of 7 to 10 years of progressive experience in a relevant specialized field or functional area
• Demonstrated experience leading or managing complex projects or programs from inception to completion
• Prior experience working in a government contracting or defense-related environment is highly preferred
• Experience developing and presenting technical reports, briefings, and documentation to senior-level stakeholders
• Proven track record of delivering high-quality results within established timelines and budgets
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams and coordinating with external clients or government partners
• Background in conducting research, analysis, and evaluation within a specialized technical or operational domain
• Experience mentoring junior staff and contributing to team development initiatives
• Prior experience supporting proposal development or business development activities is a plus
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required; Master's degree or advanced certification is preferred