Payroll and Benefits Specialist

Payroll and Benefits Specialist

Job Summary

The Payroll and Benefits Specialist is responsible for accurately processing payroll and administering employee benefits programs. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, maintains employee records, resolves payroll and benefits inquiries, and supports HR initiatives related to employee compensation and benefits.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Administration

• Process weekly, biweekly, semi-monthly, or monthly payroll accurately and on time.
• Review timesheets, attendance records, and payroll data for accuracy.
• Calculate wages, overtime, bonuses, commissions, and deductions.
• Maintain payroll records and employee earnings information.
• Process payroll adjustments, garnishments, tax withholdings, and direct deposits.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
• Prepare payroll reports for management and auditors.
• Coordinate year-end activities, including W-2 preparation and distribution.

Benefits Administration

• Administer employee benefits programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and retirement plans.
• Manage employee enrollments, changes, and terminations in benefits systems.
• Conduct benefits orientation for new hires.
• Assist employees with benefits questions and issue resolution.
• Coordinate annual open enrollment activities.
• Maintain accurate benefits records and documentation.
• Liaise with benefits providers, brokers, and third-party administrators.
• Monitor benefits compliance with ACA, COBRA, FMLA, HIPAA, and other applicable regulations.

HR Support

• Assist with employee onboarding and offboarding processes.
• Maintain confidential employee records.
• Generate reports and metrics related to payroll and benefits.
• Support audits and compliance reviews.
• Recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Qualifications Required

• Associate's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 2+ years of payroll and benefits administration experience.
• Knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and benefits administration.
• Proficiency in HRIS and payroll software systems.
• Strong Microsoft Excel and data management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification.
• Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or SHRM-CP certification.
• Experience with ADP, Paycom, UKG/Kronos, Workday, or similar HR/payroll platforms.
• Experience in manufacturing, distribution, or multi-state payroll environments.

Skills

• Payroll Processing
• Benefits Administration
• Compliance and Regulatory Knowledge
• Data Analysis and Reporting
• HRIS Management
• Customer Service
• Communication Skills
• Time Management
• Problem Solving
• Confidentiality and Ethics

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.
• Ability to communicate effectively with employees and external vendors.
• May occasionally lift and carry office materials up to 15 pounds.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Professional development opportunities.

Reports To: Human Resources Senior Manager
Department: Human Resources