Overview

Payroll Specialist MSA is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to support accurate and timely payroll processing with our Architecture, Engineering and Construction consulting firm. This role plays a critical part in ensuring payroll accuracy, maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and supporting project-based labor reporting that drives financial performance.The Payroll Specialist works closely with Accounting and Human Resources to ensure payroll data, time reporting, and labor allocations are accurate and aligned with company policies and project requirements. This role can be out of any of our WI, IL, IA or MN offices. Responsibilities Process and reconcile bi-weekly or semi-monthly payroll within company payroll and timekeeping systemsReview employee timesheets for completeness, proper approvals, and compliance with company policiesEnsure accurate allocation of regular, overtime, and premium pay to the correct project codesProcess employee deductions including benefits, retirement contributions, garnishments, and leviesMaintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax requirements, including multi-state taxationEnsure all employee timesheets are submitted and approved according to company deadlinesMonitor compliance with project-based time reporting standards to support accurate job costing and billingReview labor distribution reports to confirm hours are charged to appropriate projects and cost categoriesAssist Project Managers and Project Accountants with labor corrections and reclassificationsSupport month-end close by ensuring labor postings are accurate and reconciledTrack and calculate PTO accruals, flex time balances, and related payouts according to company policiesProcess final pay and PTO payouts for employee terminationsReconcile payroll registers to the general ledger, including wage expenses, payroll taxes, and benefit deductionsPrepare payroll-related journal entries such as PTO accruals, bonus accruals, and payroll liabilitiesAssist with year-end payroll processes including W-2 preparation and reconciliationServe as a primary point of contact for employee payroll and timekeeping questionsPartner with HR to ensure accurate pay rates, benefit deductions, and accrual policies are appliedCoordinate with Accounting to ensure labor costs are recorded accurately for project reportingSupport internal and external audits by preparing payroll documentation and reportsIdentify opportunities to improve payroll and timekeeping processes while maintaining strong internal controls Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferredEquivalent professional experience will be considered4+ years of payroll or accounting experienceExperience in an Architecture/Engineering or professional services firm strongly preferredExperience with project-based timekeeping and labor costing systems preferredStrong attention to detail and accuracyWorking knowledge of payroll regulations and tax complianceAbility to analyze payroll data and resolve discrepanciesStrong communication and collaboration skillsHigh level of integrity and discretion when handling confidential information Work Authorization This position requires authorization to work in the United States for any employer. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this role. Benefits & Compensation Hourly Pay Range: $30 to $48/hr depending on experience and qualifications. Candidates with significant experience may also be considered for a higher-level role with increased compensation. Why Join MSA Better Together A collaborative work environment that promotes open doors, new ideas, and honest opinions.Multi-disciplinary Opportunities As multi-talented people in a multi-disciplinary firm, we encourage employees to explore interests, seek new experiences, and apply their skills where they can make the greatest impact.We've Got Your Back Support when you need it and independence w