Payroll Subject Matter Expert

Job Title: Payroll Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Location: Hybrid Lisle, IL (Onsite required during payroll processing)
Employment Type: Contract or Interim (W2)
Pay : $55+/hr. W2 depending on experience

Overview:
Jefferson Wells' client, a well-established organization based in Lisle, IL, is urgently seeking a Payroll Subject Matter Expert (SME) to join their team on a hybrid basis. This is a critical role for someone who is highly knowledgeable in payroll processing, a proactive problem-solver, and a collaborative partner across HR, IT, and Finance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Independently manage end-to-end bi-weekly payroll processing for approximately 350 U.S.-based employees across various states
• Serve as the go-to expert for all payroll-related inquiries and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Collaborate with HR to resolve employee discrepancies and ensure accurate data flow.
• Partner with IT to troubleshoot and resolve any payroll system issues.
• Work closely with Finance leadership to provide payroll reports, answer questions, and support audits or financial planning.
• Maintain and update payroll records and ensure data integrity.
• Ensure timely and accurate submission of payroll, including tax filings and deductions.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Payroll SME or similar role, with hands-on payroll processing responsibilities.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, formulas, etc.).
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.
• Experience working with multi-state payroll.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Ceridian Dayforce a plus
• Familiarity with hybrid work environments and cross-functional collaboration.

At Jefferson Wells, ( www.jeffersonwells.com ), we have built a reputation for results-driven, innovative workforce solutions that help companies create competitive advantage. From basic to complex, we custom tailor our services to fit our clients needs from interim and permanent professional talent resourcing to complete project solutions in the areas of Finance/Accounting, Audit/Compliance, Tax, and Business Optimization. Our professionals provide specialized industry and technical experience and expertise to our clients, enabling them to accelerate their business performance. We serve clients, including Fortune 500 and Global 1000 companies, from offices worldwide, leveraging the workforce capabilities of the Manpower Group.