We are seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Tax Specialist to support our U.S. payroll tax operations and ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations. In this hybrid role, you will be responsible for maintaining accurate tax records, conducting audits, resolving discrepancies, and supporting year-end reporting activities. This position plays a key role in keeping our payroll processes compliant, efficient, and accurate.

Location – Hybrid (based in College Station, TX)
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm CST

In this role, you will:
•Administer and maintain payroll tax documentation to ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements.
•Stay current on payroll-related legislation and update processes accordingly.
•Conduct payroll tax audits, identify discrepancies, and implement timely resolutions.
•Register new tax jurisdictions and maintain required documentation and filings.
•Serve as a point of contact for payroll tax inquiries and resolve issues within one business day.
•Support year-end payroll activities including W2 validation and distribution.
•Update payroll software, including tax tables to reflect laws rate changes.
•Perform additional duties as assigned.

What you need to have to be considered:
•2-5 years of experience processing U.S. payroll taxes
•Strong understanding of payroll tax regulations, wage laws, and accounting principles.
•High school diploma or equivalent.
•Experience with Oracle, PeopleSoft, or other payroll software and tax reporting systems.
•Excellent organization, communication, and time management skills
•Strong attention to detail and analytical ability.
•Ability to collaborate with cross functional teams and manage complex situations.
•Solid knowledge of end-to-end U.S. payroll tax processes.

These will help you stand out:
•Associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related fields.
•CPA certification

Cognizant will only consider applicants for this position who are legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring company sponsorship now or at any time in the future.

We are excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Do not hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role.

Hourly Rate and Other Compensation:
The hourly rate for this position is between $20.00 – $25.00 per hour depending on the experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.
This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.

Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
•Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
•Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
•401(k) plan and contributions
•Long-term/Short-term Disability
•Paid Parental Leave
•Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Disclaimer: The hourly rate, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

The Cognizant community:
We are a high caliber team who appreciate and support one another. Our people uphold an energetic, collaborative and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

• Cognizant is a global community with more than 300,000 associates around the world.
• We don’t just dream of a better way – we make it happen.
• We take care of our people, clients, company, communities and climate by doing what’s right.
• We foster an innovative environment where you can build the career path that’s right for you.

About us:
Cognizant is one of the world's leading professional services companies, transforming clients' business, operating, and technology models for the digital era. Our unique industry-based, consultative approach helps clients envision, build, and run more innovative and efficient businesses. Headquartered in the U.S., Cognizant (a member of the NASDAQ-100 and one of Forbes World’s Best Employers 2025) is consistently listed among the most admired companies in the world. Learn how Cognizant helps clients lead with digital at www.cognizant.com

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Disclaimer:
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.