Payroll Analyst

About the Role:

The Payroll Tax Analyst works on a team of payroll professionals responsible for processing multi-jurisdiction payrolls for 6,000 U.S. employees utilizing Workday payroll, ADP Tax Service and Peoplesoft general ledger software. Working collaboratively with other internal teams, this important role provides high level associate interaction and guidance for payroll tax inquiries, analyzes payroll tax data for various tasks and projects including associate case management, tax production review and reconciliation, various process and system testing, validation, reporting and analysis. This role requires the ability to assist with problem solving and demands a high level of focus, engagement, discretion, and confidentiality. Learn more about our talented Corporate Finance organization here.

This position requires a hybrid work environment. Baird is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status.

The Impact You'll Make:

• Payroll Tax Updates: Collaborate with other payroll team members to update tax changes using effective dates and tax registration information. Implement new and modified processes, update tax rates, and manage documentation. Prepare and analyze production tax reports for payroll tax recording
• Tax Research and Resolution: Researches and responds to associate and outside agency inquiries. Proactively contact agencies, vendors, and other resources to assist in problem resolution or tax errors
• General Ledger Account Entries and Reconciliation: Follow documented processes to initiate tax account entries and reconciliation. Initiate process improvements and update documentation. Communicate with other team members and/or other teams to ensure account balances are defined and appropriate. Review, research, and collaborate to determine next steps for unreconciled, or outstanding balances to ensure accuracy. Compile supporting documentation to substantiate account balances
• Ancillary and Project Work: Actively contribute to initiatives that impact payroll tax, general ledger posting, payroll tax reporting, and payroll tax procedures. Serve as a backup payroll processor for all payroll companies when needed
• Application and Tax Vendor Support: Support payroll tax setup, research, testing, and production processes. Effectively communicate changes to other team members and stakeholders. Develop or contribute to user documentation and training materials as needed. Partner with cross-functional teams to resolve tax issues

What You'll Bring to Baird:

• Minimum three years of continuous experience in a payroll tax environment, including payroll accounting with general
• accounting knowledge preferred
• Proficient in Microsoft tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Strong research skills with the ability to identify and apply effective methodologies
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills; takes ownership of issues and solutions
• Meticulous attention to detail, accuracy and accountability
• Commitment to continuous improvement
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent responsibilities and deliver results
• Experience and willingness to work with AI-generated tools and processes is a plus

Baird is committed to diversity and provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, military service, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.