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Payroll Systems Analyst Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Serve as the Oracle Cloud Payroll subject matter expert (SME), leading, troubleshooting, configuration analysis, and testing. * Partner with IT and vendors to resolve system issues related to element ...

Serve as the Oracle Cloud Payroll subject matter expert (SME), leading, troubleshooting, configuration analysis, and testing. * Partner with IT and vendors to resolve system issues related to element ...

Senior, Tax Analyst - Payroll

Mclean, VA

$29.75 - $39/hr

Analysis of payroll tax notices * Preparation of Powers of Attorney * Liaison with Federal and ... Ensure that all tax related updates in the payroll system are fully reviewed and understood

Senior, Tax Analyst - Payroll

Arlington, VA · On-site

$34 - $44.25/hr

Analysis of payroll tax notices * Preparation of Powers of Attorney * Liaison with Federal and ... Ensure that all tax related updates in the payroll system are fully reviewed and understood

Senior, Tax Analyst - Payroll

Rosslyn, VA · On-site

$33.50 - $43.75/hr

Analysis of payroll tax notices * Preparation of Powers of Attorney * Liaison with Federal and ... Ensure that all tax related updates in the payroll system are fully reviewed and understood

Senior, Tax Analyst - Payroll

Washington, DC

$33.50 - $43.50/hr

Analysis of payroll tax notices * Preparation of Powers of Attorney * Liaison with Federal and ... Ensure that all tax related updates in the payroll system are fully reviewed and understood

Payroll Analyst

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Experience working with HR, payroll, and timekeeping systems, including Workday, ADP, Unanet ... Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. * High level of accuracy ...

Payroll Manager

Mclean, VA · On-site

$65K - $170K/yr

Partner with the Payroll Director to identify and implement "best-in-class" systems and workflows to reduce manual entry and enhance data integrity. * Reporting & Analytics: Serve as the subject ...

Partner with the Payroll Director to identify and implement "best-in-class" systems and workflows to reduce manual entry and enhance data integrity. * Reporting & Analytics: Serve as the subject ...

... payroll systems is a plus • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills • Ability to manage confidential employee and compensation information with discretion • Comfortable ...

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Payroll Systems Analyst information

See Reston, VA salary details

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$35

$56

How much do payroll systems analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for payroll systems analyst in Reston, VA is $35.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.74 and $39.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Payroll Systems Analyst typically interact with HR and Finance teams during payroll cycles?

A Payroll Systems Analyst plays a key collaborative role, working closely with both HR and Finance teams to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing. They gather and validate employee data from HR, troubleshoot discrepancies, and configure payroll system settings based on policy changes. Throughout the payroll cycle, they coordinate with Finance to reconcile payroll records, address compliance issues, and support audits. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the analyst often serves as a bridge between technical system requirements and departmental needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Payroll Systems Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Payroll Systems Analyst, you need expertise in payroll processing, data analysis, and a solid understanding of HR and finance principles, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or information systems. Familiarity with payroll software (such as ADP, SAP, or Workday), Excel, and relevant certifications like FPC or CPP are highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities help ensure accurate payroll operations and successful collaboration across departments. These skills are crucial for maintaining compliance, preventing payroll errors, and optimizing system performance within organizations.

What does a Payroll Systems Analyst do?

A Payroll Systems Analyst is responsible for managing, analyzing, and improving payroll software and systems within an organization. They ensure payroll processes are accurate, efficient, and compliant with regulations by configuring system settings, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with HR and finance teams. Their role often includes testing new system features, providing user support, and implementing updates to keep payroll operations running smoothly.

What is the difference between Payroll Systems Analyst vs Payroll Specialist?

AspectPayroll Systems AnalystPayroll Specialist
Primary FocusAnalyzing and optimizing payroll software and systemsProcessing payroll and ensuring accurate employee payments
Required SkillsTechnical skills, system troubleshooting, data analysisPayroll processing, compliance, attention to detail
CertificationsPayroll certifications, HRIS system trainingPayroll certification, tax compliance training
Work EnvironmentIT departments, HR teams, payroll software vendorsHR departments, accounting teams, payroll departments

While Payroll Systems Analysts focus on managing and improving payroll software systems, Payroll Specialists handle the day-to-day payroll processing and employee payments. Both roles require payroll knowledge, but the analyst role emphasizes technical system expertise, whereas the specialist role emphasizes payroll administration and compliance.

What are popular job titles related to Payroll Systems Analyst jobs in Reston, VA? For Payroll Systems Analyst jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Payroll Systems Analyst jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Payroll Systems Analyst jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Payroll Systems Analyst jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Payroll Systems Analyst job openings:
Senior Payroll and Compensation Specialist

Senior Payroll and Compensation Specialist

Four, Inc.

Herndon, VA • On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Senior Specialist, Payroll & Compensation
Location: Hybrid in Herndon, VA (3 days/week on site)
Clearance Required: None
Duration: Full-time, Permanent
Pay Type: W2 employee
Reporting to: Director of Human Resources and Training
Dotted Line to: Controller
Management Duties: None
Compensation: $90,000-$105,000 annually
Position Overview
The Senior Specialist, Payroll & Compensation is a key member of the HR and Accounting teams responsible for owning the accurate and compliant delivery of multi-state payroll, executing the company's compensation programs, and assisting with broader total rewards administration. This individual contributor role partners with the Director of Human Resources to support compensation program execution and collaborates with the Controller to maintain payroll accuracy, financial integrity, and appropriate internal controls. The role combines strategic ownership of payroll systems and processes with hands-on execution of day-to-day payroll operations. The ideal candidate brings prior compensation and payroll experience, strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to build and maintain efficient, repeatable processes in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
Essential Functions
  • Own and manage end-to-end biweekly payroll processing for approximately 100 employees, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
  • Partner with the HR Director to ensure complex situations such as garnishments and leaves of absence (STD, LTD, parental leave, furloughs, etc.) are managed appropriately, employees are paid accurately, and benefits deductions are processed accordingly.
  • Partner with the Controller to support payroll reconciliations, general ledger alignment, internal controls, and audits.
  • Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll regulations and wage and hour laws. Ensure compliance with specific contract standards and specialized GovCon legislation (e.g. SCA) where applicable.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for compensation and payroll-related employee inquiries and issue resolution, escalating to Controller and/or Director of HR where necessary.
  • Lead year-end payroll processes and required compliance reporting including ACA and W-2 preparation and distribution.
  • Administer accurate monthly short-term incentive, long-term incentive, commission, and other bonus programs, including eligibility tracking, payment calculations in support of accounting accruals, and payment processing. This high-visibility process will require interaction with the Controller, Director of Finance, Director of HR and potentially the Chief Executive Officer, as needed.
  • Support administration of the company's 401(k) retirement plan in partnership with HR and Finance/Accounting.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert during any future HRIS or Payroll provider migration.
  • Review timesheets each pay period, ensuring their accuracy by verifying changes and resolving issues.
  • With the Director of HR, build and maintain market-aligned salary ranges across the organization and ensure updates are reflected in the HRIS.
  • Review and process compensation changes to ensure alignment with company pay practices and established ranges.
  • Prepare reports and analyze data related to payroll, benefits and compensation programs, including internal equity reviews.
  • Maintain accurate employee data across HRIS and payroll systems. Regularly perform audits and support system improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
  • Draft and distribute employee communications related to payroll and compensation programs. Support employee education initiatives related to payroll and compensation.
  • Maintain confidentiality and compliance with all applicable laws and company policies.
  • Lead the continued scaling of payroll and compensation operations in a growing, multi-state environment.
  • Participate in special projects and cross-functional initiatives as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What We Offer
  • Competitive pay and benefits (medical, dental, vision, 401k with match, company-paid life/short-term disability, long-term disability insurance, paid time off, all federal holidays off, etc.)
  • Great company culture and perks (regular office happy hours, peer-to-peer recognition program, free building gym access, hybrid work environment, etc.)
  • Opportunity to shape and improve Payroll & Compensation foundations in a growing organization.
  • Collaborative environment with room for professional development and learning.

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in payroll administration, including multi-state payroll processing and full-cycle payroll processing.
  • 5+ years of experience supporting compensation. Demonstrated experience calculating and processing bonus and commission payments required.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel required.
  • Experience working with HRIS and payroll systems required; Paycor experience preferred. Prior implementation experience preferred.
  • Excellent critical thinking skills, including the ability to creatively and independently solve problems, required.
  • Ability to quickly learn and fluidly navigate different computer systems (CRM, HRIS, Payroll system, etc.) as an administrator, including a strong understanding of how these systems are configured (e.g. workflows).
  • Strong knowledge of payroll, benefits, and employment laws and regulations including FLSA, ACA, COBRA, ERISA, SCA, and HIPAA.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to partner effectively across HR, Finance, and leadership teams.
  • Ability to operate independently, prioritize effectively, and maintain a high standard of accuracy and follow-through. Must be able to execute tasks independently.
  • Exceptional attention to detail, analytical proficiency, and organization skills.
  • Level-headed with sound judgment and demonstrated discretion in handling confidential information.
  • An appreciation for both the strategic importance of strong HR/Payroll systems and the necessity of hands-on execution to keep those systems running.
  • A desire to continue growing and learning new things.
  • A collaborative, proactive mindset. Good team player.

Physical Requirements:
The work is generally sedentary and performed in an office or remote setting; however, some travel to government or partner sites may be required. The position may require:
  • Visual acuity to view computer screens, read technical documents, and perform data analysis and data entry
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate a keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment
  • Occasional lifting or carrying of equipment, boxes, or documents (typically under 40 lbs)
  • Ability to hear and speak clearly in virtual and in-person meetings

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
About the Company
Four Inc. is a fast-growing public sector IT provider with a long history of delivering exceptional results in the federal and SLED markets. We are a multi-state employer, and our culture is collaborative, driven, and people-focused. We are building for scale, and we're looking for teammates who are energized by building structure and improving processes while providing excellent customer service, whoever your customer is. With a proven track record of success and a strong, collaborative culture, we are expanding our team to continue driving innovation and digital transformation in the public sector.
Four Inc. is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled persons and veterans. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. We actively seek to recruit, hire, and promote qualified veterans and individuals with disabilities.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position, please contact us at careers@fourinc.com.
This job opening will be listed with the appropriate state workforce agency as required under the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA).