Payroll & Benefits Specialist

At Frontier Cooperative, we believe agriculture is more than a business, it's a way of life. As an agricultural leader serving Nebraska's farming communities, we provide a comprehensive range of grain, agronomy, feed, and energy products and services. But what sets us apart is how we do it: with integrity, with quality, and with a deep commitment to the communities we're proud to call home. We're looking for people who share those values and want to grow with us. We're seeking a detail-oriented Payroll & Benefits Specialist to join our Lincoln, NE team. This role is responsible for accurate payroll processing, benefits administration, leave management, and retirement programs for a workforce of 450+ employees. What you'll do Payroll administration Process accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll for salaried and hourly employees using BambooHR Verify and process working hours, overtime, leave, garnishments, taxes, retirement contributions, and insurance deductions Calculate payroll amounts including overtime, bonuses, and deductions; generate and maintain payroll records Support correct tax processing and reporting of fringe benefits Timekeeping & training Train managers on timesheet adjustments, approvals, and leave administration; provide ongoing support Onboard new employees to timekeeping systems including time entry, leave requests, and timecard approvals Benefits administration Assist with onboarding to ensure payroll and benefits paperwork is completed accurately through the HRIS system Coordinate annual open enrollment and monthly new-hire enrollments for timely and accurate benefit elections Audit benefit enrollments and provide eligibility files to insurance vendors Respond to employee and manager inquiries regarding benefits, enrollments, life events, and plan provisions Assist employees with benefits claims and plan changes due to qualifying life events Leave, compliance & workers' compensation Process and administer leave of absence requests including medical, disability, and FMLA Interpret and apply FMLA and ADA requirements related to leaves and accommodations Lead workers' compensation claims including first report of injury, coordination with insurance carriers, and communication with leadership Retirement programs & audits Respond to 401(k) inquiries related to enrollment, contributions, and plan changes; manage annual catch‑up contribution enrollments Participate in annual 401(k), workers' compensation, and payroll audits Manage payroll functions for the defined benefit program including uploads, audits, and coordination with third‑party administrators Prepare and distribute required reports and plan documentation What we are looking for 1–2 years of experience processing payroll and/or benefits Strong knowledge of employment and wage laws, payroll practices, and leave administration Solid understanding of accounting fundamentals and payroll best practices Proficiency with payroll/timekeeping systems and Microsoft Office Suite Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills Ability to document processes and stay current with industry trends Why join us? Paycheck for life: Cooperative pension plan, plus 401(k) with traditional and Roth options Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, supplemental plans, and FSA/HSA spending accounts Paid time off: Vacation and sick leave to rest and recharge Uniform & boot allowances: Annual allowances so you're always equipped and ready 360 Wellness Program: Whole‑person wellness with real incentives Sign‑on & referral bonuses: Get rewarded for joining and for bringing great people with you Additional benefits available — ask us for details. #J-18808-Ljbffr