HR Specialist/Benefits and Payroll

Position Summary:

The Human Resources, Benefits and Payroll Specialist provides day-to-day support for employee benefits, payroll and core human resources functions. The position works closely with the Chief Financial Officer and Human Resources Department to ensure employee records are accurate, payroll and benefit matters are handled timely, and employees and managers receive dependable assistance. This role requires sound judgment, attention to detail and discretion when handling confidential information.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Responsible for payroll processing, including reviewing employee changes, deductions, garnishments, bonuses, merit increases and other payroll-related information for accuracy and timely entry.
• Review payroll deductions each month and reconcile deductions to benefit invoices; research and correct discrepancies promptly.
• Prepare and distribute payroll and benefits reports as requested and maintain supporting documentation.
• Submit accounts payable requisitions for monthly benefit invoices and other benefit-related payments as required.
• Administer employee benefit programs, including health, dental, life, retirement, employee assistance and disability benefits, in accordance with plan requirements and agency policy.
• Serve as a primary contact for benefit vendors and assist employees with enrollment, eligibility, coverage changes and benefit-related questions.
• Respond to employee and manager questions regarding payroll and benefits in a timely, helpful and professional manner.
• Support the onboarding process by completing required payroll and benefits steps, reviewing benefit options with new employees and ensuring all required documentation is received.
• Coordinate and process workers' compensation claims, including First Reports of Injury, supporting documentation and communication with employees, supervisors and the insurance carrier.
• Assist with the review and documentation of workplace accidents and injuries and help ensure required reports are completed timely.
• Process leave requests and related documentation, including FMLA and other approved leaves, in coordination with Human Resources and agency leadership.
• Process unemployment compensation inquiries, garnishment notices, drug-screening notices and other employment-related documents accurately and within required timeframes.
• Assist with employee changes and separations, including updates to payroll, benefits, personnel records and applicable systems.
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records, including payroll, benefits and other human resources documentation.
• Enter and update employee information in the agency's human resources and payroll systems and routinely review records for completeness and accuracy.
• Support routine human resources processes such as personnel-file maintenance, employment verifications, policy acknowledgments and compliance tracking.
• Assist with employee communications related to benefits, payroll deadlines, enrollment periods and other assigned human resources matters.
• Provide requested records and documentation during audits, monitoring visits and other compliance reviews.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow agency policies and applicable requirements when handling employee and payroll information.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer and/or Executive Director.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of payroll practices, employee benefits administration and general human resources procedures
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain information clearly and respectfully
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word and Outlook; experience with UKG Ready or Kronos.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Sound judgment and the ability to handle sensitive employee information with discretion and confidentiality
• Ability to build effective working relationships with employees, managers, vendors and outside partners
• Ability to identify discrepancies, follow through on issues and maintain complete supporting documentation
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting or a related field preferred; relevant education and experience may be considered.
• At least two years of experience in payroll, employee benefits or human resources preferred.
• Experience working with payroll or human resources information systems preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word and Outlook.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment where priorities may change.
• Experience in a nonprofit or health and human services setting is a plus.