Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist (Hybrid - Dallas, TX) About Sonida Senior Living Sonida Senior Living is one of the nation's leading operators of independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities. With 165 communities across more than 35 states and nearly 12,000 residents, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and creating meaningful experiences for those we serve. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join our Corporate Payroll team in Dallas, Texas. Why Join Sonida? Hybrid work environment based in Dallas, TX Opportunity to support a large multi-state workforce Collaborative HR, Payroll, and Accounting partnership Growing publicly traded organization Competitive compensation and benefits package Career growth opportunities within HR and Finance Position Summary The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing accurate and timely multi-state payroll for employees across Sonida Senior Living communities. This position works closely with Human Resources, Accounting, and community leaders to ensure payroll accuracy, compliance, and an exceptional employee experience. Key Responsibilities Process and audit multi-state payroll for employees across multiple locations. Review and validate employee data including new hires, terminations, promotions, transfers, and pay changes. Partner with HR and community leadership to resolve payroll-related questions and discrepancies. Ensure payroll activities comply with federal, state, and company policies. Support payroll tax, garnishment, and wage assignment processing. Assist with payroll reconciliations, reporting, and month-end activities. Maintain payroll records and documentation in accordance with company policies. Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes and enhance accuracy and efficiency. Serve as a Tier II resource for payroll-related inquiries from managers and employees. Qualifications Required: 2+ years of payroll processing experience Multi-state payroll experience High school diploma or equivalent Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills Experience working with payroll systems and HRIS platforms Preferred: UKG Pro experience Multi-site payroll experience CPP certification or progress toward certification Experience supporting large employee populations Skills & Competencies Strong knowledge of payroll laws, wage and hour compliance, and payroll best practices Excellent organizational and time management skills Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment Strong communication and customer service skills Advanced Excel and reporting capabilities preferred Ability to work effectively with HR, Finance, and Operations partners