Cook Solutions Group is seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Payroll Specialist to oversee the organization’s payroll functions and ensure employees are paid accurately, on time, and in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. This role is responsible for processing bi-weekly payroll, maintaining employee payroll records, supporting HRIS data integrity, and assisting with payroll-related audits and reporting.

Location: Portland, OR. This is a hybrid position with 3 days in office and 2 days remote after initially training. Office is located in NE Portland near the Portland Airport.

Pay: $55K-$65K year DOE

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll accurately and on schedule.
• Enter, maintain, and process payroll-related information in the payroll system, including:
  • Hourly rates and salaries
  • Bonuses, commissions, and other compensation
  • Hours worked, paid leave, and holidays
  • Tax withholdings and payroll deductions
  • Benefit deductions, garnishments, and charitable contributions
  • Address changes and employee status updates
• Ensure proper calculation and processing of payroll deductions for taxes, benefits, and other authorized deductions.
• Issue or reissue physical checks or direct deposits as needed due to payroll corrections or final terminations.
• Maintain and review payroll processes to ensure timely and accurate payroll transactions, including salaries, benefits, garnishments, taxes, and other deductions.
• Process payroll updates accurately, including new hires, terminations, pay changes, and other employee status changes.
• Prepare and maintain accurate payroll records, reports, and supporting documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour laws, as well as company policies and best practices.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing and providing payroll records and documentation.
• Identify opportunities for improvement and recommend updates to payroll systems, software, and procedures.
• Maintain employee payroll records and support HRIS accuracy and integrity.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of payroll functions, including payroll processing, balancing, internal controls, and payroll tax compliance.
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Experience with payroll software required; Paychex Flex experience is a plus.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
• 3+ years of payroll experience required.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Benefits

Cook Solutions Group (CSG) provides our employees with the most comprehensive benefits program to enhance their quality of life. CSG employees enjoy competitive salaries; CSG pays 90% of the PPO insurance premium for the employee; 100% for a high deductible plan, and 50% for the dependents. Both plans have reasonable deductible levels and co-pay amounts; a 401(k)-retirement match; Paid Time Off (PTO); 8 paid holidays per year; 16 hours of Paid Time Off a year for volunteer time through the Cook Career Builders program; Technician benefits that include commute time, company vehicle and gas card, quarterly bonus program, tuition reimbursement and much more!

Why work at Cook Solutions Group?

We know our employees are what make our business succeed. That’s why we’ve cultivated a casual, upbeat environment that enhances productivity, satisfaction, and retention. We strive to provide the best, most equitable and cost-effective benefits for employees. New employees become eligible for benefits on the first of the month following the 60-day day waiting period who work a minimum of 30 hours per week.

Our employees are encouraged to take advantage of flexible scheduling, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and volunteer in their communities through our Cook Community Builders program.

Equal Opportunity

Cook Solutions Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis [“protected class”] including, but not limited to race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability; citizenship status; uniform service member status; or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.

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