HR Specialist: Payroll and Benefits

Description

Job Summary

The HR Specialist: Payroll & Benefits Specialist is responsible for ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for 300+ employees and the effective administration of employee benefits programs. This role involves managing payroll systems, supporting benefits enrollment and administration, maintaining employee records, and assisting with recruitment and compensation support. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational skills, a high level of confidentiality, and a solid understanding of payroll, benefits compliance, and HR best practices.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Payroll Administration

• Process payrolls for all employees, ensuring accurate and timely payments in compliance with tax laws and company policies.
• Maintain and update payroll databases and records, ensuring accuracy and compliance with relevant legal requirements.
• Address and resolve payroll-related inquiries from employees promptly and professionally.

Benefits Administration

• Manage employee benefits enrollment, including medical, dental, vision, supplemental, and retirement plans.
• Administer leave programs (FMLA, PTO, unpaid leave) in alignment with legal and company standards.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefits questions, providing resolution and guidance as needed.
• Liaise with external benefits providers to ensure accurate payroll deductions and smooth plan operations.

Recruitment & Hiring Support

• Assist with posting job vacancies and tracking applications within the Applicant Tracking System (ATS).
• Coordinate interviews and contribute to delivering a seamless onboarding experience for new hires.
• Employment Verifications & Records
• Respond to employment verification requests in a timely and professional manner.
• Maintain and update employee records, including tax forms, benefit elections, and disciplinary documentation, ensuring proper storage and confidentiality.
• Compensation Support
• Support the monitoring and maintenance of the company’s salary structure to promote internal equity and external competitiveness.
• Conduct regular audits of compensation data and provide recommendations for pay adjustments where necessary.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in payroll, benefits administration, or a related HR role.
• SHRM-CP a plus.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of payroll processing, tax regulations, and benefits administration.
• Proficiency in HRIS and payroll systems (experience with specific systems is a plus).
• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to handle sensitive employee matters confidentially.
• Familiarity with employment laws and regulations, including FMLA and ACA compliance.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software
• Proficiency with Paylocity or the ability to quickly learn
• Have reliable transportation and be able to pass a Motor Vehicle Record Record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP), Professional in Human Resources (PHR), or SHRM - CP certification.
• Experience with applicant tracking systems and compensation analysis.

Working Conditions

• Full-time, office-based position with occasional remote work flexibility.
• Standard working hours with potential for occasional overtime during payroll or benefits enrollment periods.
• Have reliable transportation and be able to pass a Motor Vehicle record check.