Upstate NY is your answer to “What’s Next?” Explore the possibilities for a career that suits your lifestyle.
What's Upstate NY
Inspiring People. Endless Opportunity. Boundless Adventure.
Payroll Operations Specialist
Upstate Caring Partners
Accounting & Finance, Operations
Utica, NY, USA
Posted on Jan 25, 2026
The Payroll Operations Specialist provides essential support to leaders and employees across Upstate Caring Partners. In this role, the specialist manages all aspects of employee timesheets within the workforce management system and oversees payroll processing, offering guidance to managers, support staff, and employees throughout the process. They are responsible for maintaining complete and accurate payroll records for all positions within the Division and are expected to cultivate strong working relationships with managers, staff, employees, and the broader community. This position requires a high level of creativity, strong business knowledge, and excellent organizational skills.
Core Responsibilities
- Execute end-to-end payroll processing, including manual checks, supplemental runs, and adjusting payrolls with a focus on 100% accuracy.
- Administer UKG Dimensions/Workforce Management (WFM) timesheets. Troubleshoot system errors and collaborate with IT or HR for complex technical resolutions.
- Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with leadership and staff to ensure predictable results, credibility, and proactive problem-solving.
- Maintain all required payroll documentation and employee payroll records. Assist in generating reports to analyze labor costs and payroll trends.
- Work with HR and Benefits for processing eligible forms of payment needed for terminated employees, including final pay calculations and compliance with state-specific termination pay laws.
- Ensure strict adherence to federal, state, and agency regulations (including FLSA, DOL, and tax laws). Assist in agency audits, payroll query validations, managing pending pay, garnishments, and adjustments.
- Proactively identify opportunities to automate manual tasks and streamline payroll workflows to enhance efficiency.
- Serve as the subject matter expert for payroll related inquiries, providing timely and empathetic communication to all employees.
Qualifications
- Associate's degree in Business, Accounting, or related field.
- Prior experience in payroll process and customer service is preferred.
- Intermediate computer skills required (including proficiency in MS Excel/MS Windows/Adobe Acrobat).
- Experience with UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) or Cognos Analytics is a plus.
- Valid NYS Drivers License (or willingness to obtain).
Benefits
Our work environment provides the opportunity to grow and learn in a fast-paced atmosphere. We offer competitive benefits and salary to include a low-cost individual health insurance plan, dollar for dollar retirement match (up to 7%), life insurance, voluntary benefits and generous paid time off.
- Comprehensive Health/Dental/Vision
- Direct Deposit
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Retirement Plan 403(b)
- Life Insurance
- Voluntary Benefits
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Generous PTO Plans (Sick, Vacation and Employee Leave)
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Service Awards
- Employee Appreciation Events
- Employee Discounts
Upstate Caring Partners is the premier provider of direct-care services and programs in Central New York for individuals of all abilities and their families. If you believe in empowering people, Upstate Caring Partners is an excellent place to start or grow your career.