Payroll Specialist

Company Description

Ayr Wellness is a leading U.S. multi-state cannabis operator with more than 90 licensed retail locations across Florida, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Nevada, and soon, Virginia. We cultivate, manufacture, and sell a broad portfolio of high-quality cannabis products, proudly serving both medical patients and adult-use consumers across our markets.

At Ayr, our strength lies in our people. We’re re-imagining how we work across every part of our business, and we’re looking for builders and doers to roll up their sleeves and help shape what’s next.

The cannabis industry is fast-moving, complex, and full of opportunity. Together, we’re not only shaping a company, but also building the future of cannabis. At Ayr you’ll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact while growing your career alongside a company positioning itself for long-term success.

Job Summary

The Payroll Specialist supports accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing across multiple states and entities. Reporting to the Payroll Manager, this role ensures all pay-related transactions are handled with precision while maintaining confidentiality and compliance with federal, state, and local laws. The Payroll Specialist partners closely with HR, Finance, and field operations to reconcile data, resolve discrepancies, and deliver a seamless payroll experience for all employees.

This position requires strong analytical and technical skills, including proficiency in Excel (pivot tables, lookups, and data validation), and the ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly and off-cycle payrolls accurately and on schedule for multiple states and entities.
• Maintain and audit employee payroll records to ensure accuracy of wages, deductions, garnishments, and tax withholdings.
• Support bonus, commission, and tip payments in coordination with HR and Finance.
• Reconcile payroll registers, review exception reports, and resolve discrepancies prior to submission.
• Manage payroll-related inquiries, providing timely and professional responses to employees and internal partners.
• Prepare and review year-end tax forms, including W-2s and other required filings.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable labor, tax, and wage laws across jurisdictions.
  
  

Qualifications

• 3+ years of payroll experience for 500+ employees; multi-state and entity experience strongly preferred.
• Working knowledge of federal and state wage and hour laws, tax compliance, and payroll best practices.
• Advanced Excel skills required (pivot tables, lookups, data reconciliation).
• Experience with payroll systems (e.g., Wurk, ADP, Paycom, Ceridian, or similar).
• Strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
  
  

Education / Certification Requirements

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting, Business, or related field preferred. Equivalent work experience considered in lieu of a degree.