Payroll Specialist - Richland, MS

Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of weekly, multi-state payroll for a large employee population. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, manages employee deductions and garnishments, supports tax reporting and filings, and serves as a key resource for payroll-related inquiries. The Payroll Specialist works closely with HR and Finance teams to ensure payroll integrity, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Process weekly and/or bi-weekly payroll for approximately 1,700+ employees across multiple states.

Import, verify, audit, and adjust timecard and payroll data to ensure accuracy.

Review and reconcile wages, overtime, PTO, and other pay types in compliance with payroll regulations.

Perform payroll audits and reconcile payroll registers prior to transmission.

Ensure timely and accurate distribution of employee pay.

Verify employee setup and timecard accuracy within timekeeping systems (e.g., JD Edwards).

Track and maintain PTO accruals within the timekeeping system.

Perform QA/QC reviews of payroll submissions, charge codes, and control totals.

Manage federal, state, and local tax withholdings, deposits, and multi-state reporting.

Conduct tax analysis to ensure proper withholding and compliance.

Support quarterly filings and year-end reporting, including W-2 processing.

Process employee deductions, garnishments, and other withholdings in accordance with regulations.

Maintain compliance with SOX standards, internal controls, and company policies.

Serve as a primary point of contact for employee payroll questions and issue resolution.

Partner with HR teams to ensure accurate benefit and deduction processing.

Maintain the highest level of confidentiality when handling sensitive employee data.

Identify opportunities for efficiency improvements and assist with payroll system upgrades or enhancements.

Participate in special projects and perform other duties as assigned by leadership.

Work independently under minimal supervision while escalating complex issues as needed.

Education & Experience High School Diploma required; Associate degree preferred (Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field).

2+ years of payroll processing experience; multi-state payroll experience strongly preferred.

Working knowledge of payroll laws, regulations, and reporting requirements.

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet strict deadlines.

Ability to work independently and perform well under pressure.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Dependable, reliable, and professional demeanor.

Preferred Experience processing payroll for large employee populations.

Familiarity with payroll and timekeeping systems such as Kronos, JD Edwards, or similar platforms.

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field.

Advanced multi-state payroll and tax compliance experience.

Physical Qualifications Ability to lift and handle materials up to 50 pounds unassisted.

Ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, bend, and stand as required.

What You'll Get

Comprehensive Medical Coverage Multiple BCBS medical plan options, all with in-network preventive care covered at no cost, the same nationwide provider network, and access to virtual care for primary care, dermatology, general medical needs, and mental health support.

Prescription Drug Coverage included with all medical plans, plus tools and advocacy support to help manage healthcare costs.

Dental & Vision Coverage Dental plans with 100% coverage for preventive care and orthodontia options for adults and children, plus vision coverage with annual exams and frame allowances.

Health Savings & Flexible Spending Accounts HSA options with Fidelity, Healthcare FSA, Limited Purpose FSA, and Dependent Care FSA (up to $7,500) to help you save on eligible healthcare and dependent expenses.

401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match Immediate eligibility and vesting, with a company match of 100% on the first 3% and 50% on the next 3% (up to 4.5% total match).

Life & Disability Insurance Company-paid basic life and AD&D coverage, plus optional supplemental life insurance for employees and dependents. Short-term and long-term disability coverage helps protect your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Confidential mental health, financial, family, and wellbeing support available at no cost to you and your household.

Voluntary Benefits Optional accident, hospital indemnity, critical illness, identity theft protection, pet insurance, home/auto insurance, and long-term care coverage.

Employee Discounts & Community Support Access to exclusive employee discounts and participation in Quanta Cares, a disaster relief fund supporting employees and families during times of need.

Additional Benefits Not Listed....

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.