Payroll Tax Specialist

Payroll Tax Specialist
Santa Clara, CA – Hybrid

You are a Payroll Specialist who will lead payroll operations and serve as a subject matter expert for payroll processes, tax compliance, and reporting. This role provides guidance to Payroll Administrators, ensures accurate and timely payroll processing, and acts as an escalation point for complex payroll and tax-related issues.

This position pays: $55.00 to $65.00 per hour

What you will be doing:

• Lead end-to-end processing of biweekly and semi-monthly payroll, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Train, mentor, and provide guidance to Payroll Administrators; act as an escalation resource
• Audit payroll transactions, off-cycle checks, and system outputs to identify errors and root causes
• Provide employee support for payroll, tax, and benefits-related inquiries
• Manage payroll tax compliance, including reconciliation of quarterly and annual filings
• Maintain and audit multi-state payroll tax data, including remote work compliance and reciprocity
• Research and resolve tax discrepancies, agency notices, and compliance issues
• Coordinate and support internal and external audits, including preparation of required reports
• Prepare and review W-2, W-2C, and other regulatory filings
• Partner with Accounting to support general ledger reconciliation and reporting
• Document payroll processes and develop controls to ensure data integrity
• Generate reports for audits, compliance, and business needs using systems such as ADP Smart Compliance and Workday
• Monitor and ensure compliance with evolving payroll tax regulations, including FMLI and state-specific requirements

What you bring:

• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or related field (Bachelor’s preferred)
• 6+ years of progressive payroll experience, including leadership or senior-level responsibilities
• 3–5 years of hands-on payroll tax experience, including multi-state and remote workforce compliance
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification preferred (active or inactive)
• Strong knowledge of payroll systems, particularly ADP Smart Compliance and Workday
• Advanced Excel skills with strong attention to detail and analytical ability
• Experience with payroll tax filings, reconciliations, and regulatory reporting (e.g., W-2s, 990s, SOC reports)
• Ability to troubleshoot complex payroll and tax issues and identify root causes
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Familiarity with tools such as Visio, Snagit, and collaboration platforms (e.g., Teams)

To learn more about the workplace culture and the position, please apply!

For over 50 years, Nelson Connects has empowered employers and job seekers to achieve their unique versions of success. Our commitment to excellence, integrity, compassion, and innovation has made us a trusted partner in connecting jobs, people, and communities. The remarkably talented and dedicated people of Nelson Connects are building on the rich history of this company to define the future of our industry, and we can’t wait to work with you.

We are Nelson Connects, and our purpose is your success.

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