Description Mark Tower with Robert Half Permanent Placement has an excellent opportunity for a Payroll and HR Specialist in Lackawanna, NY. The Payroll/HR Specialist is responsible for the full-cycle processing of payroll and labor compliance for a multi-company construction firm, with a focus on prevailing wage and certified payroll projects. This role ensures strict adherence to all regulatory and reporting requirements while supporting employees and internal stakeholders across payroll, benefits, and reporting functions. This is an in-office role with starting pay of $27 - $29 per hour. Responsibilities include but not limited to: + Accurately process weekly payroll for approximately 150 employees across multiple companies, including time tracking, deductions, direct deposits, and tax filings + Prepare and submit certified payroll reports in compliance with prevailing wage laws (e.g., Davis-Bacon Act) + Maintain and manage fringe benefits, per diem, union benefits, 401(k) contributions, and other deductions including garnishments and child support + Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including ACA reporting and W-2 processing + Coordinate weekly time reports and invoice approvals for temporary labor agencies + Assist with internal and external payroll audits and maintain accurate documentation for union and non-union payroll compliance + Administer PTO tracking and maintain related calendars + Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries, collaborating with project managers, accounting staff, and government agencies + Perform additional HR/payroll-related duties including employment verifications, hotel bookings for field staff, and labor compliance support as assigned Requirements + Education & Experience: High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred; minimum of 3 years of payroll experience in the construction industry highly preferred + Technical Skills: Proficient in construction-specific payroll systems and Excel; strong knowledge of prevailing wage laws, certified payroll (including Davis-Bacon Act), garnishments, 401(k) administration, and payroll-related deductions + Certifications: Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or equivalent certification preferred but not required + Key Attributes: Detail-oriented with strong accuracy, excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and the ability to handle confidential information discreetly Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) .