Payroll Processor

Starwood Hotels is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Processor to join our team. This role is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll for employees across multiple hotel properties, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies. The Payroll Processor works under the direct supervision of the Corporate Director of  

Payroll and maintains a dotted-line reporting relationship with Payroll Managers, supporting operational alignment and service excellence across the organization. This position plays a critical role in maintaining employee trust and satisfaction through precise payroll administration. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Process payroll for all employees across multiple hotel properties, ensuring accuracy of hours worked, earnings, deductions, and statutory withholdings. 

• Maintain and update payroll records, including employee data changes and tax information, within Workday. 

• Prepare, audit, and distribute payroll reports to management for review and reconciliation. 

• Ensure ongoing compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations, including wage and hour requirements. 

• Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely and professional manner, researching and resolving discrepancies as needed. 

• Collaborate closely with People/HR partners to administer employee benefits and payroll-related deductions. 

• Assist with quarterly and year-end payroll processes, including the preparation and distribution of tax documents such as W-2s. 

• Support the implementation and maintenance of payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls. 

• Provide guidance and support to operational managers regarding payroll review and best practices. 

• Participate in special projects and process improvement initiatives as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS 

• Associate degree (AA) or higher in Accounting or a related field; Certified Payroll Professional (CPP/CCP) designation preferred. 

• Minimum of three (3) years of payroll experience, preferably in a multi-location or hospitality environment. 

• Experience using Workday as an HRIS and payroll system preferred. 

• Strong knowledge of general payroll practices and applicable federal and state payroll regulations. 

• Working knowledge of accounting principles, with the ability to understand the financial impact of payroll activity on financial statements. 

• Solid understanding of timekeeping systems and wage and hour compliance requirements. 

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel (including pivot tables), PowerPoint, and Word. 

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills. 

• Excellent customer service and communication skills. 

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively within a team environment. 

• Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment while maintaining accuracy. 

• Due to payroll processing schedules, occasional weekend work may be required; time off during the week may be provided. 
   

WHO YOU ARE 

•  Detail-oriented and highly organized, with a strong commitment to payroll accuracy and compliance 

•  Dependable and accountable, taking ownership of deadlines and deliverables 

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, multi-property hospitality environment 

•   Professional and service-focused, with strong communication and customer service skills 

•  Discreet and trustworthy, with the ability to maintain strict confidentiality 

•  Collaborative by nature, able to work effectively with People/HR, Finance, and operational leaders 

•   Proactive and solution-oriented, with an interest in continuous improvement and process efficiency