Payroll Tax Specialist

About the role

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.

Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

Payroll Tax Specialist – JLL

What this job involves

This role serves as a critical partner in managing US payroll tax operations and ensuring compliance across federal, state, and local jurisdictions. You will take ownership of complex tax processes, from reconciliations and registrations to SOX audit documentation and employee inquiries. Your work directly supports JLL's commitment to operational excellence and regulatory compliance while enhancing the employee experience through accurate, timely payroll tax management.

What your day-to-day will look like

• Process and reconcile payroll tax reporting for federal, state, and local taxes after each pay cycle, ensuring timely transmission of payroll tax liabilities to ADP
• Manage state and local tax registrations and serve as the primary point of contact for agency notices and correspondence, escalating complex matters as needed
• Respond to employee cases within established Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and serve as primary liaison for W4 vendor updates
• Own day-to-day SOX and other audit documentation and testing requirements, partnering with the tax manager on audit strategy and findings
• Process US tax equalization settlements, hypo withholding tax calculations, and taxable non-qualifying moving expenses
• Conduct quality checks on key HR transactions, update SOPs and process maps regularly, and manage stakeholder communications with US process owners
• Lead process training sessions including new hire onboarding, knowledge transfer, and process updates

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Minimum 7 years of demonstrated payroll experience with in-depth payroll tax emphasis, including multi-state and local tax experience
• Sound knowledge of US labor laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification
• Experience performing tax research using Bloomberg Tax and Accounting resources
• Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite, particularly Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
• Highly motivated self-starter with ability to challenge the status quo and implement process improvements
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to manage stakeholder relationships
• Proficiency in payroll tax processes with ability to resolve complex Tier 2-3 queries
• Experience with ADP Global View, ADP Smart Compliance, Workday, or equivalent systems
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills with attention to detail
• Proven ability to work under tight time constraints and handle multiple tasks simultaneously

Location: Chicago, IL

• At JLL, we are collectively shaping a brighter way — for our clients, ourselves and our fellow employees.
• We choose to take the more inspiring, innovative, and optimistic path on our journey toward success.
• What sets JLL apart is our culture of collaboration, locally and across the globe, which allows us to create transformative solutions for the real estate industry.
• We support each other's wellbeing and champion inclusivity and belonging across teams.

• JLL is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
• This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Expected compensation for this position: 66,900.00 – 82,000.00 USD per year
• Final compensation packages are determined by various considerations including but not limited to candidate qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations.

Location: On-site –Chicago, IL

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

Benefits

Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:

JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits include:

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.