Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Payroll & Benefits Specialist

The Payroll & Benefits Specialist role primarily focuses on payroll, benefits administration, compliance reporting, HR systems, and employee data management. Additionally, this role contributes to continuous improvement by optimizing HR systems, streamlining workflows, and enhancing data accuracy and reporting capabilities.

Payroll Processing & Compliance : Process and audit weekly, semi-monthly, and monthly U.S. payrolls, ensuring accuracy in hours worked, deductions, and tax withholdings. Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal payroll regulations, including statutory filings and year-end processes. Partner with Accounting and People teams on reconciliations, reporting, audits, and systems. Support payroll system updates, implementations, and process improvements. Monitor background checks, drug screenings, and motor vehicle record (MVR) reports, escalating discrepancies as appropriate. Support compliance filings, including the annual EEO-1 report. Assist with workers' compensation documentation and reporting in partnership with the Safety Department. Serve as the go-to contact for employee partners regarding pay and time-related questions. Track and report on paid time off, leaves of absence, and other payroll-impacting activities. Support new hire onboarding by entering and reviewing payroll and tax details, ensuring direct deposit and benefit deductions are correctly set up. Audit employee deductions for accuracy against billing from benefit carriers. Maintains compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommended best practices.

Benefits Administration : Serve as point of contact with benefits broker and vendors. Participate in quarterly broker reviews and annual benefits review / selection. Answer employee benefit and life event questions or coordinate resolution with external partners. Support annual 5500 filings and related compliance requirements. Research and resolve employee retirement plan issues in partnership with providers. Assist with employee education and communications related to the 401(k) plan.

HRIS Administration & System Support : Maintain and audit employee data in Paycor, including compensation, benefits, and tax information. Create workflows in Paycor to improve operational efficiencies and streamline user experience. Manage system releases and updates, including testing, documentation, and internal communication. Lead and contribute to cross-functional projects to improve system efficiency and the overall user experience. Create and deliver reports and summaries for leadership as requested.

Job Requirements : Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required. 24 years of HR, payroll, or benefits administration experience. Working knowledge of employment laws, payroll practices, and HR compliance requirements. Proficiency in HRIS and payroll systems (Paycor experience a plus). Strong organizational skills with a high level of attention to detail. Effective communicator with a customer service mindset.