Graphite  is a growing boutique finance, accounting, tax, and strategy firm (www.graphitefinancial.com) built to help startup and high-growth companies scale efficiently and sustainably. Graphite Financial is redefining the “finance department” for early-stage companies and VC-backed startups. We deliver high-caliber accounting and finance leadership and support to entrepreneurs and management teams building scalable, high-growth companies. Our clients are actively managing cash burn, measuring performance, reporting to investors, making capital allocation decisions, and preparing for fundraising. All of that takes expertise and time that founders don’t have and can’t afford to hire for. Graphite bridges the gap with flexible, fixed-fee support packages that provide fractional leadership and operational support from CFOs, Controllers, FP&A Managers, and Tax leaders.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to oversee payroll processing for our employees across the U.S. The ideal candidate will have 2-5 years of experience managing U.S. payroll, preferably using Gusto, Justworks, and Rippling. This role requires expertise in payroll compliance, tax regulations, and multi-state payroll processing within the financial services industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Process end-to-end payroll operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Manage payroll through platforms such as Gusto, Justworks, and Rippling.
• Maintain accurate payroll records, including wages, deductions, benefits, and tax filings.
• Ensure timely processing of payroll taxes and reporting requirements.
• Handle payroll audits and compliance reviews to align with financial industry standards.
• Address and resolve employee payroll inquiries with professionalism and accuracy.
• Collaborate with HR and finance teams to streamline payroll processes.
• Stay current with evolving payroll laws, tax requirements, and industry best practices.

Qualifications & Skills

• 2-4 years of experience in U.S. payroll processing, preferably within the financial services industry.
• Proficiency in Gusto, Justworks, and Rippling is highly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of payroll tax regulations, compliance, and multi-state payroll processing.
• Exceptional attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently.
• Experience handling payroll for a regulated industry is a plus.