PAYROLL PROJECT SPECIALIST (Temporary)

ABOUT US:

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We are celebrating our 100-year legacy. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program. We work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

Celebrating a Century: https://100.scripps.edu/

POSITION TITLE: Payroll Project Specialist (Temporary/6 months)

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Payroll Project Specialist will assist with specialized projects related to state registrations and compliance. This role focuses on ensuring the organization is properly registered for state employment taxes, unemployment insurance, and workers' compensation in all applicable states. Supports the integration of registration data with UKG to ensure accurate tax payments and compliance. Additionally, will review existing payroll SOPs for accuracy, recommend process improvements, and assist with fiscal year-end preparations and audit support.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Review and verify state registrations for employment taxes, unemployment, and workers' compensation in all states where employees are located.
• Coordinate with UKG to ensure all registration details are accurately reflected in the system for tax payment processing.
• Partner with internal payroll staff and state agencies to resolve discrepancies or gaps in registration.
• Assist with fiscal year-end activities, including reconciliations and reporting.
• Provide support for internal and external payroll audits by preparing requested documentation and assisting with responses.
• Assist with processing final pay for separated employees in compliance with company policies and state/federal regulations.
• Support coordination of administrative and clerical functions by prioritizing tasks, allocating resources effectively, and ensuring timely completion of activities.
• Help prepare tax reports and support the preparation of quarterly tax returns and year-end filings in compliance with regulations.
• Assist in analyzing foreign tax data to determine proper withholding for W-4/DE-4 input and assess eligibility for tax treaty benefits.
• Help coordinate stop payments and manage the reissuance of lost, stolen, or damaged payroll checks.
• Support interpretation of legal garnishment orders and tax levies to establish accurate payroll deductions.
• Assist with maintenance and updates of payroll system, calendars, pay periods, and code definitions.
• Performs other payroll projects or tasks assigned
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 3+ years' experience in payroll processing, including multi-state payroll administration.
• Solid understanding of state and federal payroll laws and regulations across multiple states.
• Knowledge of payroll tax laws and regulations for both domestic employees and foreign nationals.
• Proven problem-solving abilities with a focus on process improvement.
• Strong customer service orientation with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Effective time management and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel), with advanced Excel skills preferred.
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  While subject to change based on business needs, this is an on-campus position requiring a minimum of 4 days per week working onsite from our La Jolla campus, with flexibility to work 1 day per week remotely from home.

  
  

COMPENSATION:

The expected hiring range for this position is $30.00 to $35.00/hourly, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
• Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
• Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:

The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture, and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.