Client Payroll Specialist

Position Overview

The Client Payroll Specialist is responsible for overseeing day-to-day payroll processing for legal-industry clients, managing client relationships, ensuring compliance, and supporting process improvements across the payroll function.

Key Responsibilities 

Client Payroll Management

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing for clients, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Review payroll data, process payroll runs, and resolve payroll discrepancies
• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned payroll clients

Client Communication & Support

• Monitor and manage a shared payroll inbox, ensuring timely, professional responses to client inquiries
• Triage incoming payroll requests and issues, resolving items directly or escalating as appropriate
• Maintain clear and organized communication with clients regarding payroll deadlines, changes, and issues

Client Onboarding & Support

• Lead client onboarding to Gusto Payroll and CPN Legal’s internal systems
• Configure payroll settings, deductions, benefits, and tax profiles
• Guide clients through state payroll and employer registration requirements

Compliance & Issue Resolution

• Ensure payroll setups and processing comply with federal, state, and local regulations
• Assist with payroll tax notices, benefits corrections, and 401(k) audits
• Research and resolve payroll issues independently, escalating complex matters when necessary

Collaboration & Process Improvement

• Collaborate with payroll team members to manage deadlines and workload
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes and client experience
• Assist with training and mentoring junior payroll staff

Client Relationship Development

• Conduct regular client check-ins and proactively address payroll needs
• Identify opportunities to expand services in coordination with firm leadership (no external sales responsibility)

Qualifications & Experience

• 5+ years of payroll experience, preferably within a CPA firm or professional services environment
• Strong working knowledge of payroll compliance, payroll taxes, benefits, and multi-state payroll
• Hands-on experience with Gusto Payroll preferred
• Proven ability to manage multiple client payrolls and deadlines independently
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• High attention to detail with a client-service mindset