Payroll and Benefits Specialist

***This is NOT a remote position*** Job Description Eccalon is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll & Benefits Specialist to join our team and ensure accurate and timely payroll processing and benefits administration. As a Payroll and Benefits Specialist, you will be responsible for compliance and ensuring that all employees are paid accurately and timely, as well as assisting with office benefits to include, but not limited to, healthcare and 401K plans. You will have the responsibility of ensuring that all payroll and tax filing requirements are met, as well as advising employees of their benefits coverage. Additionally, you will interact with insurance providers and be accountable for all payroll records and year-end reports. Key Responsibilities Process payroll for all employees, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies and legal regulations. Ensure all payroll transactions are processed accurately and in a timely manner, including new hires, terminations, and changes to employee information. Oversee and manage the complete payroll process, including accurately calculating wages, bonuses, commissions, and deductions. Maintain and update payroll records, including employee information, deductions, and benefits. Prepare and distribute payroll reports, statements, and summaries for management and employees. Administer employee benefits programs, including enrollment, changes, and terminations. Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding payroll and benefits inquiries, providing excellent customer service and resolving issues promptly. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations and monitor changes in laws and regulations related to payroll and benefits. Collaborate with HR and finance departments to ensure seamless payroll operations to include reconciling payroll and benefits data, resolving discrepancies, and ensuring accurate reporting. Assist in the development and implementation of payroll and benefits policies and procedures. Assist with year-end payroll activities, including W-2 preparation and distribution. Support the annual benefits open enrollment process, including communication to employees and coordination with benefit vendors. Conducting retirement and benefits-related calculations and analysis Researching and recommending appropriate benefits plans and services based on data analysis Coordinating non-salary employee compensation like retirement plans, pensions, tuition reimbursement, and stock options. Assisting with the administration of all benefits and retirement programs Assists employees regarding benefits claim issues and plan changes. Distributes all benefits enrollment materials and determines eligibility. Enrolls employees with carriers and process life status changes. Responds to benefits inquiries from managers and employees on plan provisions, benefits enrollments, status changes and other general inquiries. Processes and administers all leave-of-absence requests and disability paperwork: medical, personal, disability and FMLA. Effectively interprets FMLA and ADA implications as they relate to leaves of absences/disabilities. Responds to 401(k) inquiries from managers and employees relating to enrollments, plan changes and contribution amounts. Manages the annual catch-up contribution enrollment. Assists with the open enrollment process. Administers the tuition reimbursement program. Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in payroll and benefits administration. Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources or related field. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification Minimum of at least 5 years of proven experience as a Payroll and Benefits Specialist or in a similar role. Strong understanding of payroll processes, laws, and regulations. In-depth knowledge of payroll processing, tax regulations, and benefits administration. Proficiency in payroll software (e.g., ADP, Paychex) and MS Office Suite. Excellent attention to detail with the ability to perform complex numerical calculations. Exceptional organizational and time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with employees at all levels. Preferred Qualifications SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification credential.