Payroll & Benefits Manager

Role Description

The HR Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and optimizing all core HR operational functions for EWC Growth, including multi-state payroll, HRIS management, and benefits administration. This role ensures accuracy, compliance, and efficiency across all employee lifecycle processes while supporting a multi-unit, high-volume retail and services environment.

This position partners closely with field leadership and the finance team to ensure seamless execution of payroll, data integrity, and alignment with business objectives. The HR Operations Manager plays a critical role in maintaining compliance across multiple states and driving continuous improvement within HR systems and processes.

Essential Functions

• Payroll & Compliance
  • Own and manage end-to-end payroll processing across multiple payrolls in a multi-state, multi-unit environment.
  • Ensure timely and accurate payroll processing, including commissions, bonuses, and adjustments.
  • Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws, including multi-state tax regulations.
  • Partner with Finance to reconcile payroll, support audits, and ensure accurate reporting.
  • Manage payroll-related inquiries and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• HRIS Management (Rippling)
  • Serve as the primary administrator for the Rippling system.
  • Maintain data integrity across all employee records, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
  • Manage system configurations, workflows, reporting, and integrations.
  • Partner with internal stakeholders to optimize system functionality and drive efficiencies.
  • Lead system enhancements, implementations, and process improvements.
• Benefits Administration
  • Oversee the administration of employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, and ancillary benefits.
  • Manage open enrollment processes, employee communications, and vendor relationships.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable regulations (e.g., ACA, COBRA, FMLA).
  • Resolve employee benefit inquiries and escalations.
• Operational Excellence
  • Develop, implement, and continuously improve HR operational processes and procedures.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies and all applicable employment laws.
  • Maintain accurate documentation, reporting, and audit readiness.
  • Identify opportunities for automation and process optimization.
• Partnership & Support
  • Partner with field leaders to support workforce needs, payroll understanding, and HR processes.
  • Collaborate with Finance on headcount reporting, labor costs, and budgeting.
  • Support the Head of HR with strategic initiatives, reporting, and compliance efforts.
  • Any other duties assigned by management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Business or Human Resources preferred.
• 5+ years of progressive HR operations experience.
• Strong experience managing multi-state payroll in a high-volume environment.

Requirements

• Hands-on experience with HRIS platforms (experience with Rippling strongly preferred).
• Solid understanding of wage and hour laws, payroll compliance, and benefits regulations.
• Experience in retail, multi-unit, or service-based organizations preferred.
• Strong attention to detail with high level of accuracy and accountability.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Payroll expertise and compliance focus.
• Systems thinking and process optimization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Cross-functional collaboration.
• High level of discretion and confidentiality.

Benefits

• Base salary range of $80,000-$100,000 + bonus.
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance.
• 401(k) Plan.
• Paid Time Off & Holidays.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Life & Disability Insurance.
• FSA & HSA Accounts.
• Complementary Waxing & Product Discounts.