Commercial Onboarding and Payroll Specialist

OVERVIEW OF THE POSITION
The Onboarding and Payroll Specialist is responsible for executing the end to end onboarding and payroll processes with accuracy, compliance, and exceptional service. This role ensures all candidate documentation, background checks, timekeeping processes, payroll submissions, and client specific requirements are completed according to company standards.

Success in this role requires comfort working with AI powered onboarding tools, automated verification systems, digital payroll workflows, and synthetic/AI teammates to enhance accuracy, reduce manual workload, and accelerate processing timelines. The Specialist collaborates closely with recruiters, compliance teams, and internal operations to create seamless experience for candidates and clients across multiple programs.

DESCRIPTION OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS (for each duty and function listed indicates % of time to total 100%):

• Facilitate and manage the complete onboarding process in alignment with state, federal, and client-specific requirements.
• Collect, validate, and process all onboarding documents, leveraging AI-driven document verification tools and digital workflows.
• Initiate, monitor, and adjudicate background checks using automated screening platforms; ensure all results meet contractual and regulatory standards.
• Educate candidates on timekeeping procedures, payroll timelines, and required platforms (including VMS systems when applicable).
• Manage the weekly payroll process, including timecard collection, validation, troubleshooting, and processing through automated systems.
• Partner with candidates, clients, and recruiters to ensure timely approval and submission of timecards.
• Utilize auditing tools to verify timecard accuracy and identify discrepancies before payroll submission.
• Organize and maintain payroll documentation in compliance with ESO standards and audit readiness guidelines.
• Troubleshoot and resolve onboarding or payroll issues efficiently, escalating complex issues when appropriate.
• Support customers and associate expectations with professionalism, empathy, and effective communication.
• Adapt quickly to changing priorities and timelines in a fast paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Maintain accurate records and performance metrics through digital tracking and analytics dashboards.
• Support special projects and continuous improvement initiatives involving automation, process optimization, and compliance enhancements.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum 2 years of HR, onboarding, payroll, or staffing industry experience.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with both human teams and AI/synthetic contributors.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to solve problems and adapt quickly in a demanding environment.
• Basic accounting and payroll knowledge preferred.
• Comfort making recommendations based on data findings and system insights.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED/ #OF STAFF:
None

LANGUAGE/COMMUNICATION SKILLS (written & verbal):

• Superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interact professionally with candidates, clients, and internal teams.
• Strong discretion and confidentiality when managing sensitive data.

COMPUTER/SYSTEM SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including advanced Excel (formulas, pivot tables, reconciliation).
• Experience with electronic onboarding systems, VMS tools, or HRIS platforms preferred.
• Comfort using AI-enabled onboarding tools, automated verification systems, and payroll technology.
• Ability to learn new platforms and digital workflows quickly.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS:
N/A

WORK ENVIRONMENT/ PHYSICAL OR MENTAL ABILITIES:
The demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.