Payroll Specialist

You're looking for a change, and so are we. At Venable, we know that every new hire brings valuable experience, new perspectives, and a chance to raise the bar. That's why we're looking for a Payroll Specialist to provide accurate processing of Lawyers, Business and Legal Professional Staff payroll and ensure compliance with established policies, procedures and applicable laws.

This position is REMOTE with the exception of initial training period AND 2 onsite days/month for payroll processing.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for...

Payroll Processing & Administration

• Processing bi-weekly payroll and special payroll runs; processing out-of-cycle checks, manual checks, reversals and adjustments.
• Reviewing payroll data for accuracy, including new hires, terminations, and changes.
• Handling salary proration, garnishments, deductions, and reimbursements.
• Maintaining accurate records for payroll-related transactions; Maintaining confidentiality regarding all payroll and compensation matters.

Timekeeping & Data Management

• Importing and processing Kronos timekeeping files; Performing data uploads/bridges and create reports in ADP and related systems.
• Responding to payroll and Kronos email inquiries.
• Managing payroll-related folders and shared drives.

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensuring compliance with federal and state payroll laws.
• Generating and auditing 401(k) contributions, loans, and benefits deductions.
• Responding to unemployment claims, verifications of employment (VOEs), and disability claims; Maintaining IRS lock-in letters, leave insurance records, and other compliance documents.

Collaboration & Support

• Coordinating with HR, Benefits, and IT to ensure accurate data flow.
• Preparing payroll reports and schedules for management review; Assisting with bonus and salary increase tracking.
• Serving as back-up for Kronos and payroll system tasks.

The successful candidate will demonstrate...

• A minimum of 2 years of relevant experience, including at least 1 year of direct payroll experience
• Basic knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations
• Proficiency in Excel; experience with accounting/payroll systems; experience with ADP and UKG Kronos strongly preferred; experience with a document management system preferred
• Strong attention to detail and care in producing work product, catching errors in real time; Ability to problem solve and seek guidance in a timely manner
• Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels in the firm (verbal and written)
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under strict deadlines; Flexibility to work after hours or weekends as needed for specific payroll cycles
• Commitment to maintaining strict confidentiality of employee and firm data

Pay Range for Candidates in Washington, DC:

$67,000 - $77,000 per year

Pay Range for Candidates in Baltimore, MD:

$65,000 - $75,000 per year

The range provided is the minimum and maximum salary that Venable in good faith believes at the time of this posting that it is willing to pay for the advertised position. Exact compensation will be determined based on individual candidate qualifications and location. Additional compensation may include discretionary bonuses and overtime, if eligible. Overtime wages earned will be paid in compliance with applicable law.

Committing your time and talent is no small matter-at Venable, we know that superior client service begins with an investment in our people. Our competitive compensation, robust benefits, and programs that support our employees' well-being, families, and futures reflect our dedication to prioritizing the whole person, not just the professional.

Venable's benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, flexible spending and healthcare savings accounts, 401(k) with firm profit share, paid time off, firm paid holidays, wellness and personal advocacy programs, family planning resources and leave programs, tuition reimbursement, and more. New employees are provided a detailed orientation to the firm's benefit offerings upon hire.

Here, we strive to offer the kind of care that radiates, from our colleagues to our clients, to our communities, so that success finds everyone.