Human Resources Payroll Specialist

About Us:LearningMate/Straive and MGT Impact Solutions, LLC (MGT) have established a strategic global partnership designed to deliver world-class advisory, technology, and operational solutions for public sector and education clients. This collaboration leverages MGTs deep expertise in management consulting, social impact advisory, and technology services with LearningMate/Straives global leadership in educational technology and talent solutions. Through this partnership, LearningMate/Straive serves as a key hiring and onboarding partner for MGT, enabling access to a diverse pool of global talent and specialized resources. New roles are sourced and hired in close coordination between both organizations, with LearningMate/Straive managing recruitment, onboarding, and initial training.Job SummaryWe are seeking a Payroll Specialist with a strong customer-service orientation, deep respect for confidentiality, and a keen eye for systems and process improvement. Reporting to the Payroll Director, this role supports MGTs growing, multi-state team by overseeing payroll operations, ensuring compliance, and contributing to HR initiatives that strengthen employee experience and operational excellence.Roles and ResponsibilitiesOversee the full cycle of multi-state payroll processing for salaried and hourly employees, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.Respond to payroll inquiries and resolve discrepancies promptly and professionally; maintain payroll FAQs and knowledge base resources.Partner with the HR Service Delivery teams on employee data updates related to compensation, benefits, and employment status changesPrepare, reconcile, and submit payroll tax filings (941, state/local) and lead year-end processes including W-2 and 1095-C coordination.Reconcile payroll general ledger entries; support month-end close, financial reporting, and internal/external audits.Maintain and audit HR and payroll records to ensure accuracy and compliance with EEO, FMLA, COBRA, and other employment regulations.Document and maintain payroll procedures to comply with internal controls and audit standards.Stay current with employment and payroll laws and ensure company policies and practices remain compliant.Participate in HR-related projects and initiatives, including technology implementations, process improvements, and compliance reviews.Develop and analyze HR and payroll metrics, data, and trends to support leadership decision-making.Identify opportunities for process improvement and recommend solutions aligned with best practices and regulatory standards.Assist with HR system enhancements and integrations.Maintain strict confidentiality and data privacy in handling all payroll and employee information.Support additional HR lifecycle projects as needed (e.g., onboarding, offboarding, culture initiatives).Required QualificationsBachelors degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field.Five (5) ore more years of payroll experience, with a focus on payroll administration and benefits coordination.Demonstrated experience managing multi-state payroll in a professional services or high-growth environment; experience supporting 1,000+ employees preferred.Strong understanding of payroll laws and regulations, including FMLA, COBRA, and state/local payroll compliance.Experience with payroll GL reconciliations, audits, and year-end processing.Proficiency with MS Office Suite; intermediate to advanced Excel skills required (e.g., VLOOKUP, pivot tables).Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; able to interpret and present data clearly and effectively.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to work collaboratively with all levels of the organization.Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Self-starter with the ability to work independently and virtually; demonstrates initiative and accountability.Experience with UKG, ADP, or similar payroll systems preferred.HR or payroll certification (e.g., PHR, SHRM-CP, CPP) preferred.What We Offer:As part of LearningMate/Straives partnership with MGT Impact Solutions, you will engage with nationally respected teams in management consulting, social impact advisory, and technology services. You will have the chance to contribute to projects that create a profound social impact while benefiting from professional development opportunities for long-term career growth.