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Senior Payroll Specialist, Workday

Job DescriptionThe Washington Post is seeking a detail-oriented Senior Payroll Specialist responsible for end-to-end processing of the US biweekly or monthly payroll cycle in Workday. The biweekly payroll comprises approximately 1,400 union and non-union employees across two FEINs, while the monthly payroll includes approximately 1,000 non-union employees under one FEIN. The Senior Payroll Specialist will manage and verify data inputs, transmit payroll, research and resolve payroll-related issues, and provide excellent customer service to employees. This team member ensures all payroll tasks adhere to internal policies and procedures as well as federal, state, and local regulations, while also providing peer review for the other Senior Payroll Specialist.MotivationThis role is ideal for a detail-oriented payroll professional who thrives in a dynamic environment with complex payroll requirements. You will play a crucial role in ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing while delivering excellent customer service. If you enjoy problem-solving, maintaining compliance, and continuously improving processes, this position offers the opportunity to develop your expertise with a respected organization.Key Responsibilities• Complete end-to-end payroll processing for one US payroll frequency in coordination with fellow Payroll team members, following standard operating procedures and checklists• Manage payroll input, including EIBs, for assigned payroll frequency• Review payroll data for errors, run audit reports, and prepare payroll preliminary reconciliation• Manage unsubmitted timesheets and late manager approvals when processing biweekly payroll• Utilize ADP SmartCompliance for ancillary services such as garnishments and tax filings• Utilize Wells Fargo for wage payments• Research and respond to employee/management payroll inquiries, providing excellent customer service• Liaise with HR on pay-related issues, including retroactive results, benefits, leaves of absence, FMLA, and special circumstances• Provide peer review for other Senior Payroll Specialist, addressing complex payroll inquiries and off-cycle payments• Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports of payroll transactions through electronic storage• Maintain efficient payroll processes that comply with policies and regulations, updating and documenting processes as changes occur• Produce monthly reports for external departments• Process off-cycle payments as necessary• Manage Workday notifications and tasks for business processes• Assist with ad hoc projects and audits• Perform other duties as assignedMinimum Qualifications• 4+ years of payroll experience processing multistate payrolls• Experience with Workday Payroll, ADP tax, and compliance tools• Solid foundation of payroll knowledge and regulations• Strong organizational and time management skills• Exceptional attention to detail with a high level of accuracy• Excellent written and verbal communication skills• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment• Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll-related software• Commitment to maintaining strict confidentiality with sensitive dataPreferred Qualifications• Experience with international payroll processing for EMEA and APAC regions• Experience working with union payroll requirements• Fundamental Payroll Practitioner (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification• Workday Payroll certification or equivalent credentials• Experience with payroll system implementations or upgradesThe Washington Post’s policy for employees is five days per week in the office, with exceptions for newsgathering and general business travel.Compensation and BenefitsWherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage• Company-paid pension and 401(k) match• Three weeks of vacation and up to three weeks of paid sick leave• Nine paid holidays and two personal days• 20 weeks paid parental leave for any new parent• Robust mental health resources• Backup care and caregiver concierge services• Gender affirming services• Pet insurance• Free Post digital subscription• Leadership and career development programsBenefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.The salary range for this position is:64,300.00 - 96,500.00 USD AnnualThe actual salary within this range will depend on individual skills, experience, and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements. This position may be eligible for a bonus or incentive program, and a member of the Talent Acquisition team will discuss bonus payment terms and conditions during the interview process.The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed.The innovation doesn’t end in the Newsroom – dozens of teams power The Washington Post. We are now hiring the next innovator – how will you Impact Tomorrow?#washpostlife

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What You Should Know About Senior Payroll Specialist, Workday, The Washington Post

Join The Washington Post as a Senior Payroll Specialist, and be a vital part of our dynamic team located at our Headquarters in WA! If you're meticulous, experienced, and passionate about payroll processing, this is the perfect opportunity for you. In this role, you’ll be at the forefront of managing the US biweekly and monthly payroll cycles using Workday, handling around 2,400 employees across multiple FEINs. You'll oversee everything from verifying data inputs and running audit reports to resolving payroll inquiries, ensuring that employees receive their pay accurately and on time. Your expertise will also include working collaboratively with your colleagues to maintain compliance with payroll regulations and internal policies. As you support the accurate and efficient end-to-end payroll process, you’ll get the chance to mentor others, provide peer reviews, and tackle complex payroll queries. If you thrive in a fast-paced, detail-driven environment and enjoy problem-solving, this position offers an exciting path to enhance your skills with a prestigious organization. At The Washington Post, we value accuracy and customer service, and we’re looking for someone who shares our commitment to excellence. Let’s embark on this journey together and make a real impact!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior Payroll Specialist, Workday Role at The Washington Post
What are the primary responsibilities of a Senior Payroll Specialist at The Washington Post?

As a Senior Payroll Specialist at The Washington Post, your main responsibilities include processing the US biweekly and monthly payroll cycles in Workday, managing payroll data input, verifying accuracy, running audit reports, and ensuring compliance with regulations. You'll also handle inquiries from employees and management regarding payroll issues, collaborating closely with HR on pay-related matters.

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What qualifications are required to become a Senior Payroll Specialist at The Washington Post?

To qualify for the Senior Payroll Specialist position at The Washington Post, you need at least 4 years of payroll processing experience, particularly with multistate payrolls. Familiarity with Workday Payroll and certification as a Fundamental Payroll Practitioner (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is preferred. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are crucial for success in this role.

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How does The Washington Post ensure compliance in payroll processing?

The Washington Post ensures compliance in payroll processing by adhering to federal, state, and local regulations. The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for maintaining accurate payroll records, preparing necessary reports, and collaborating with other departments to address complex pay-related issues, including benefits and leaves of absence.

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What benefits does The Washington Post offer to Senior Payroll Specialists?

As a Senior Payroll Specialist at The Washington Post, you can expect a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company-paid pension, 401(k) matching, generous paid leave, and mental health resources. Additionally, you’ll receive career development opportunities and enjoy perks like a free digital subscription to The Post.

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What is the work environment like for a Senior Payroll Specialist at The Washington Post?

The work environment for a Senior Payroll Specialist at The Washington Post is dynamic and collaborative. You will be part of a supportive team focused on accuracy and customer service, while working on complex payroll transactions. The company values a diverse workforce and provides a professional setting conducive to innovation and career growth.

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Common Interview Questions for Senior Payroll Specialist, Workday
Can you describe your experience with multistate payrolls?

When answering this question, you should highlight your specific experiences managing payroll for employees across different states. Discuss the challenges you faced, such as varying tax regulations, and how you ensured compliance. Use examples to illustrate your knowledge of state-specific payroll laws.

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What is your familiarity with Workday Payroll?

In your response, discuss how you've used Workday Payroll in previous roles. Mention specific functions or modules you are comfortable with and how your proficiency has helped improve payroll processes in your previous jobs, highlighting problem-solving situations you may have encountered.

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How do you ensure accuracy in payroll processing?

Explain the steps you take to verify payroll accuracy, such as conducting thorough data reviews and utilizing audit reports. Emphasize your attention to detail and your proactive approach to identify and rectify discrepancies before finalizing payroll.

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What steps do you take to handle payroll discrepancies?

Describe your systematic approach to handling discrepancies, including your communication tactics with employees and management. Provide a specific example where you successfully resolved a payroll issue and how that impacted employee satisfaction.

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How do you stay updated on payroll regulations?

Discuss any resources you use to stay current, such as professional associations, online courses, and networking within payroll communities. Highlight your commitment to continuous learning and how you apply this knowledge to guarantee compliance in your payroll processing.

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Can you give an example of how you've improved payroll processes in the past?

Share a specific instance where you implemented changes that optimized payroll efficiency or accuracy. Discuss the situation, the action you took, and the result, illustrating your capability to innovate and refine operations.

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What tools or software do you believe are essential for payroll processing?

Mention tools like Workday, ADP, and Excel, elaborating on how you've used them for payroll management. Discuss how each tool supports different aspects of payroll processing, and your proficiency level with these applications.

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How would you handle an employee inquiry regarding payroll?

Articulate your customer service approach—listen empathetically, gather all necessary information, and provide accurate information based on your research. Use a specific example to show how you've effectively answered previous employee inquiries.

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What do you believe is the biggest challenge in payroll processing?

Discuss common challenges such as compliance with changing regulations or managing discrepancies. Share your perspective on how you proactively address these challenges, demonstrating your foresight and problem-solving skills in payroll management.

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How do you prioritize tasks during peak payroll periods?

In your response, explain your time management and organizational strategies. Provide an example showcasing how you successfully managed an extensive workload, ensuring timely payroll processing even under pressure.

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The Washington Post is an award-winning news leader whose mission is to connect, inform, and enlighten local, national and global readers with trustworthy reporting, in-depth analysis and engaging opinions. The Post is as much a tech company as it...

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March 21, 2025

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