Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Position : Payroll & Benefits Specialist Status : Full-Time Reports to : Manager of Human Resources with direct line to the Director of Finance and Administration Date : June 2026 Job Summary : The Payroll & Benefits Specialist will execute the organization’s payroll and benefit functions, ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing, benefits administration, and compliance with governmental regulations. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES PAYROLL MANAGEMENT Process bi-weekly payroll for all employees, ensuring accuracy and adherence to company policies. Ensure accurate and timely processing of payroll updates including new hires, terminations, and changes to pay rates. Calculate deductions, bonuses, and execute payroll adjustments/garnishments. Maintain payroll records, including employee timekeeping data, salary information and deductions. Lead resolution of payroll inquiries and discrepancies. Prepare and distribute payroll reports to management as needed. Stay updated on payroll laws and regulations to ensure compliance. BENEFIT ADMINISTRATION Administer employee benefit programs, including health, dental and vision insurances, disability, life insurance and other voluntary benefits. Assist employees with benefits enrollments, changes, and claims. Coordinate with benefit providers and ensure accurate and timely submission of enrollment and claims data. Manage the annual open enrollment process and ensure all employee benefit information is current. Assist the HR Manager, as needed, with leave of absence requests and disability paperwork; medical, personal, disability, and FMLA. Assist the finance team with management of retirement plan including tracking plan eligibility, employee deferrals, and company contributions. COMPLIANCE AND REPORTING Ensure ongoing compliance with US federal, state, and local tax laws. Ensure accurate filing of payroll-related tax documents by payroll vendor. Conduct regular audits of payroll, benefits, and related records in HRIS to ensure accuracy and compliance. HR AND FINANCE SUPPORT Collaborate with HR and Finance team on various projects and initiatives. Assist with onboarding and offboarding processes, ensuring proper setup and termination of payroll and benefits. REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES Excellent interpersonal skills embodying a customer service mindset with the ability to interact with co-workers with patience and empathy. Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software particularly MS Excel. Intimate knowledge of Paycom Payroll platform is a strong plus. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor’s degree in human resources or related field required. A minimum of three years of experience in full-cycle payroll and employee benefit program administration. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or related certifications considered a plus. Proficiency in Paycom Payroll platform and MS Excel #J-18808-Ljbffr