[Hiring] Senior Payroll Specialist @Cast & Crew

Role Description

The Senior Payroll Specialist is responsible for efficiently processing payroll for assigned productions and serving as the primary point of contact for clients regarding all aspects of the payroll lifecycle. This role manages our most complex, high-profile accounts, requiring a deep understanding of complicated collective bargaining agreements. Managing both union and non-union payrolls, the ideal candidate possesses extensive knowledge of SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media agreements alongside federal, state, and local labor laws. Operating with a proactive, collaborative mindset, this position also provides high-level strategic support to management to optimize overall business operations and staffing.

Core Responsibilities

• Account Management: Oversee the Interactive Media complex and high-value accounts with precision.
• Payroll Processing:
  • Execute end-to-end payroll efficiently for assigned entertainment and interactive media productions.
  • Utilize and demonstrate proficiency in the payroll database system, including relevant programs such as invoice, batch, timecard editor, and reports like timecard verification, fringe, payroll history, cast list, and gross wages.
  • Perform quality check on payrolls to ensure they were calculated and entered correctly according to internal as well as specific client protocols and agreements.
  • Maintain accurate and organized files for each client/show, strictly adhering to company policies and procedures.
  • Provide required reporting as needed.
• Compliance & Labor Relations: Interpret and apply complex collective bargaining provisions, with an emphasis on SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media agreements and variable labor regulations.
• Client Relations:
  • Act as the dedicated, primary point of contact for clients providing exceptional service, addressing all aspects of payroll production, tax-related issues, and resolving inquiries with prompt and effective problem-solving.
  • Foster and maintain strong client relationships, actively responding to questions and resolving payroll-related issues on a daily basis.
• Strategic Support:
  • Partner with leadership to provide proactive insights into workflow efficiencies and staffing needs.
  • Provide guidance, training, and direction to other team members as necessary to regulate workflow regarding the Interactive Media clients and agreements.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop technical training documentation and ensure accurate configuration and testing of system HTG rules.
  • Perform other related duties and projects assigned.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 5+ years’ experience in processing high-volume payroll (multi-state, entertainment union) for the entertainment Talent preferred.
• Payroll Expertise: Proven experience managing full-cycle union and non-union payrolls.
• Entertainment Compliance: Deep technical knowledge of SAG-AFTRA agreements and multi-state labor laws.
• Problem Solving: Advanced ability to interpret complex contractual provisions and resolve intricate client issues.
• Collaboration: Strong track record of working proactively and cohesively within a team environment.
• Communication: Exceptional client-facing communication skills and a high level of professional discretion.
• Hands-on experience using AI tools within your discipline — able to speak to specific tools used, workflow integration, and measurable business impact — with a drive to continuously experiment with and apply emerging AI capabilities.

Special Work Conditions

• Sedentary – Involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time.
• Some positions may entail exerting up to 15 lbs. of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force to lift, carry, push, or pull.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) match.
• Generous PTO.
• Paid parental leave.
• Health and wellness programs.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Employee discounts.

Compensation

The compensation range for this position is: $40.00 - $51.00 per hour. Compensation is commensurate with various factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, qualifications, skills, training, licensure, certifications, geographic cost of labor, and other business and organizational needs.