Payroll and Benefits Specialist I

SUMMARY The Payroll and Benefits Specialist administers payroll and benefits for U.S. employees of Universal. These responsibilities include executing and validating bi-weekly payroll, ensuring timely and accurate distribution of pay and deductions, in addition to administering the benefit programs to include enrollment, claims resolution, change reporting, and submitting invoices for payment. This position reports directly to the Human Resources Supervisor. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES Process and balance bi-weekly payroll, and review for accuracy;Ensure timely and accurate processing of payroll transactions for time, earnings, benefits, deductions, taxes, garnishments, and other items that affect pay. Respond to payroll inquiries from employees. Administer benefit programs, consult with and advise employees on eligibility for available insurance options, 401(k), leave of absence policies, and wellness programs. Responsible for ensuring employees have a clear understanding of the company benefit programs and at times, will act as the liaison between employees and insurance carriers to resolve issues. Coordinate yearly Open Enrollment Meetings with employees & broker; Arrange for distribution of materials from carriers and process changes within designated deadlines; Update company payroll system with any necessary changes. Input new hire information, departmental change requests, and termination data for employees into the payroll system. Review and investigate changes to state and federal laws pertaining to benefits, and reports necessary or suggested changes to the HR Supervisor. Perform audits of monthly premium payments made to insurance carriers, and reconciles benefit accounts. Complete salary, benefits, and other HR related surveys and audits. Respond to correspondence and requests received from outside agencies such as child support, and serves as backup for employment verifications and unemployment. Maintains lifecycle oversight of incident reports, workers compensation claim reporting, OSHA log maintenance, hosting after-action incident reviews, and follow up with all parties to ensure compliance with company policies, procedures and applicable Federal and State laws. Perform all other duties as required and assigned. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Associate’s Degree in HR, Business Administration or a related field with 2-4 years of relevant experience, OR Bachelor’s Degree in related field with 1-3 years of relevant experience. Demonstrated ability in maintaining highest level of confidentiality and professionalism in accessing and handling all personnel data. Knowledge of Healthcare Policies, HIPAA, FMLA, ERISA and experience with self-funded benefit programs. Knowledge/experience using payroll systems and providers is a plus Skilled with use of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint programs. Universal Instruments is an EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled employer. Target Annual Pay Rate: $63,000 - $66,000 + Robust Benefits #J-18808-Ljbffr