Job Description
Job Description
Mark Tower with Robert Half Permanent Placement has an excellent opportunity for a Payroll and HR Specialist in Lackawanna, NY.
The Payroll/HR Specialist is responsible for the full-cycle processing of payroll and labor compliance for a multi-company construction firm, with a focus on prevailing wage and certified payroll projects. This role ensures strict adherence to all regulatory and reporting requirements while supporting employees and internal stakeholders across payroll, benefits, and reporting functions. This is an in-office role with starting pay of $27 - $29 per hour.
Responsibilities include but not limited to:
- Accurately process weekly payroll for approximately 150 employees across multiple companies, including time tracking, deductions, direct deposits, and tax filings
- Prepare and submit certified payroll reports in compliance with prevailing wage laws (e.g., Davis-Bacon Act)
- Maintain and manage fringe benefits, per diem, union benefits, 401(k) contributions, and other deductions including garnishments and child support
- Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including ACA reporting and W-2 processing
- Coordinate weekly time reports and invoice approvals for temporary labor agencies
- Assist with internal and external payroll audits and maintain accurate documentation for union and non-union payroll compliance
- Administer PTO tracking and maintain related calendars
- Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries, collaborating with project managers, accounting staff, and government agencies
- Perform additional HR/payroll-related duties including employment verifications, hotel bookings for field staff, and labor compliance support as assigned
- Education & Experience: High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred; minimum of 3 years of payroll experience in the construction industry highly preferred
- Technical Skills: Proficient in construction-specific payroll systems and Excel; strong knowledge of prevailing wage laws, certified payroll (including Davis-Bacon Act), garnishments, 401(k) administration, and payroll-related deductions
- Certifications: Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or equivalent certification preferred but not required
- Key Attributes: Detail-oriented with strong accuracy, excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and the ability to handle confidential information discreetly