Description We are looking for an experienced Payroll Specialist II to manage and oversee payroll-related operations for a variety of functions, including benefits accounting, equity, and banking. This long-term contract position is based in Houston, Texas, and requires expertise in payroll processes, account reconciliation, and financial documentation. The ideal candidate will ensure accuracy and compliance in payroll activities while collaborating with multiple teams and stakeholders. Responsibilities: • Execute payroll accounting tasks, including preparing payroll disbursements, reconciling escheating accounts, and creating manual journal entries. • Load payroll general ledger data into organizational systems to ensure proper processing and reporting. • Address inquiries from benefits teams, employees, and payroll staff regarding the impact of benefits like pension plans, deferred compensation, and elected benefits on payroll. • Analyze general ledger entries and provide detailed documentation to finance teams and related departments. • Validate payroll account information and general ledger postings prior to submission to organizational systems. • Collaborate with HR, finance teams, and third-party benefit administrators to streamline payroll-related processes. • Perform monthly reconciliation of payroll accounts to ensure accurate processing and payment of third-party benefits. • Handle banking activities related to payroll checks, direct deposits, and escheating processes. • Prepare manual journal entries for payroll data, taxes, benefit payments, and other related items. • Provide backup support to Payroll Analysts, Payroll Tax Analysts, and assist with special projects as needed. Requirements • Proficiency in payroll accounting functions, including account reconciliation and journal entry preparation. • Strong knowledge of payroll processes, taxes, and benefit payment procedures. • Experience working with SAP R/3 and other payroll-related systems. • Familiarity with retirement plans, pension deductions, and deferred compensation plans. • Ability to analyze general ledger entries and provide clear documentation to finance and related teams. • Excellent communication skills for interacting with HR, finance teams, and external benefit administrators. • Demonstrated ability to manage banking operations related to payroll checks and direct deposits. • Capability to support special projects and adapt to evolving payroll needs. 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) .