Payroll Specialist

Appian Corporation · McLean, Virginia · Operations

Posted 2026-08-26

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Own the accuracy and integrity of semi-monthly US payroll processing for a high-growth AI-Powered Process Automation leader, ensuring seamless employee experiences and compliance across federal, state, and local jurisdictions.

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Appian People Operations & Payroll Team is seeking a Payroll Specialist to support the exciting growth we're experiencing. We're looking for someone to primarily support our US Payroll operations with greater growth opportunities to assist with our International processes.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Are you a highly organized team player with the ability to work in a fast paced environment while maintaining special attention to detail? Do you have a passion for process improvement that allows you to make necessary changes that sets your team up for success? This could be the job for you!

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Support and maintain all aspects of the payroll function that includes semi monthly processing of our hourly and salaried US payrolls using Workday with greater opportunities to support our international payroll processes using CloudPay.

Perform cyclical audits and reconciliations of the payroll processes.

Perform tasks in compliance with established procedures and controls, and adhere to applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

Collect, review, distribute and action any relevant payroll mail.

Assist in maintaining our state, local and unemployment tax jurisdictions.

Provide support for payroll implementations and integrations.

Provide exceptional customer service and support to internal and external partners.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.

1 to 3 years of hands-on US payroll processing experience with demonstrated expertise in multi-state payroll operations.

Working knowledge of FLSA and labor regulations, including overtime calculations, exemption classifications, and wage and hour compliance.

Strong understanding of federal, state, and local tax withholding laws and regulations, with the ability to apply them accurately in payroll processing.

Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Proven ability to perform data reconciliations and audits with a high degree of accuracy and analytical rigor.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Workday payroll experience or demonstrated ability to quickly learn and master enterprise payroll systems.

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) credential.

Experience supporting international payroll processes or working with global payroll platforms such as CloudPay.

The base salary range represents a good faith and reasonable estimate of the range at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent on a number of factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s relevant work experience, qualifications, internal peer equity, and market and business conditions that exist when extending an offer. A discretionary bonus may be awarded in recognition of individual and company performance.

In addition, Appian provides generous benefits offerings that include a 401(k) plan with company match, flexible time off, paid parental leave, medical, dental, and vision plans, life insurance, disability insurance, wellness programs, flexible spending accounts, health savings account contributions, an employee referral bonus program, and learning and development resources. Certain positions may be eligible for equity awards.

Pay and benefits are subject to change at any time, consistent with the terms of any applicable compensation, commission, bonus, or benefit plans.

Base Salary Range

$60,000—$110,000 USD

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