Payroll Specialist

Job Overview

This Payroll Specialist role in Jackson, MS is about keeping the numbers straight and making sure people get paid correctly. You’ll handle the full payroll cycle, from gathering hours to processing deductions. It’s a detail focused job where accuracy matters more than speed. The environment is usually office based, but some employers offer hybrid setups. You’ll work alongside HR and finance teams to resolve discrepancies before they become problems.

Duties & Responsibilities / JobXi / Jackson, MS

• Process weekly or bi weekly payroll runs. That means entering time sheets, calculating overtime, and checking for errors.
• Manage tax withholdings and benefit deductions. This includes 401(k) contributions, health insurance premiums, and garnishments.
• Reconcile payroll data against general ledger accounts. You’ll spot mismatches and fix them before reports are due.
• Respond to employee questions about pay stubs or missing checks. Some inquiries are simple; others require digging through records.
• Generate compliance reports for state and federal agencies. Deadlines here aren’t flexible; miss one and penalties add up fast.
• Maintain employee records within the payroll system. Updates like new hires, terminations, or rate changes need to be current.

Requirements / JobXi / Jackson, MS

• A solid understanding of payroll fundamentals: gross to net calculations, wage laws, and tax filings. If you don’t know what FICA stands for, this isn’t the role for you.
• A year or more of hands on payroll processing experience, ideally in a multi state environment. Internship experience counts if it was substantive.
• Proficiency with payroll software: ADP Workforce Now, Paychex Flex, or similar platforms. Spreadsheet skills matter too; you’ll use Excel for audits and analysis at least once a week.
• A high school diploma is required;. an associate’s degree in accounting or business administration helps but isn’t mandatory. CPP certification is a big plus but not required to start.