Job Details

Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for processing accurate, timely payroll for a multi-site construction organization, including union and non-union employees. This role ensures full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations as well as collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). The Payroll Specialist supports field operations, project managers, HR, and Accounting by maintaining clean payroll data, resolving discrepancies, processing complex construction labor transactions, and ensuring accurate job costing, fringe reporting, and union compliance. This is a fully remote position with possible occasional travel to the corporate office.

Key Responsibilities

• Process weekly payroll for union and non-union field and office employees across multiple job sites and states
• Interpret and apply CBA provisions to payroll calculations, including wages, overtime, shift differentials, and job-specific rates
• Validate and reconcile timecard submissions from job sites, foremen, and project teams; follow up on missing or inaccurate entries
• Deduct and remit union dues, assessments, fringe contributions (health, pension, annuity), and other withholdings
• Track and process fringe benefit contributions and job-costed labor allocations
• Prepare and submit certified payroll reports (e.g., Davis-Bacon, prevailing wage)
• Maintain employee payroll records, classifications, pay rates, per diem, reimbursements, and labor distribution data
• Collaborate with HR, Operations, Accounting, and Project Managers to ensure payroll accuracy and correct project/phase/cost code allocations
• Research, reconcile, and resolve payroll discrepancies and employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, garnishments, and taxes
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws, multi-state tax rules, company policies, and union agreements
• Assist with year-end activities including W-2 preparation, audits, and reconciliations
• Support system upgrades, process improvements, and integrations with timekeeping, ERP, and HRIS systems
• Assist in internal, external, union, and government audits related to payroll

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred
• 5-8+ years of payroll experience, preferably within construction or a similar project-based environment; union payroll experience strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of CBAs, prevailing wage laws, and wage and hour regulations
• Experience with construction payroll, timekeeping, or ERP systems
• Knowledge of certified payroll reporting and multi-state payroll tax requirements
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll software (UKG experience a BIG plus)
• Experience with job costing and labor allocation processes

Skills & Competencies

• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent time management and ability to meet tight, recurring deadlines
• Confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive information
• Customer service mindset with strong communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with both field and office teams

Preferred Experience

• Prior experience in construction, energy, or manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with union audits and compliance reporting
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation is a plus

Physical Work Environment

• Primarily office-based with extended periods of computer use and sitting
• Frequent use of computers, keyboards, and standard office equipment
• Occasional standing, walking, and movement throughout the office or home office
• Occasional lifting of office materials up to approximately 10-20 pounds
• Noise level is typically quiet to moderate

Equal Employment Opportunity

RPG is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in employment on account of race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, criminal history, ancestry, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status, or discharge from military service. RPG provides its services to many clients in their various business sectors who may have physical, mental, pre-employment screening and/or citizenship requirements. These requirements are driven by contracts and/or security requirements that RPG is required to adhere to, and which may vary between clients and their respective high-security industries. Misrepresentation or falsification of qualifications or background information is grounds for termination, denial of employment and/or disqualification from future employment consideration.