Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Payroll & Benefits Specialist Job Summary: The Payroll & Benefits Specialist is responsible for owning end-to-end payroll processing and supporting the administration of the organization’s employee benefits programs. This role serves as a key subject matter expert (SME) in payroll operations, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency across multi-state payroll and benefits administration. The ideal candidate brings strong technical payroll expertise, advanced Excel capabilities, and experience working within HRIS platforms (UKG strongly preferred). Key Responsibilities Payroll Administration Own and execute full-cycle payroll processing for multi-entity, multi-state operations with the highest levels of accuracy, compliance, and confidentiality Manage and audit time and attendance data within the HRIS system (UKG preferred) Process regular and off-cycle payrolls, including: Wage and salary payments Retroactive pay adjustments and benefit deductions Severance payments Garnishments and tax withholdings Perform pre- and post-payroll audits and reconciliations to ensure accuracy of earnings, deductions, taxes, and general ledger postings Prepare and post payroll-related journal entries and support Finance with payroll funding, reporting, and account reconciliations Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, including multi-state tax requirements Manage year-end payroll processes including W-2 review, audit, and distribution Generate, analyze, and maintain payroll reports; leverage data to identify discrepancies and drive improvements Partner with internal stakeholders to resolve payroll issues and deliver excellent employee support Benefits Administration Administer day-to-day operations of employee benefits programs including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), disability, life insurance, FSAs, HSAs, and dependent care accounts Conduct new hire benefits orientation and support enrollment processes Manage benefits offboarding, including COBRA administration, final deductions, and conversion processes Oversee administration of FMLA, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability programs in compliance with applicable laws Support and help execute annual open enrollment Serve as a point of contact for employee benefit inquiries, ensuring a high level of customer service Manage ACA compliance and 1095-C reporting/distribution Coordinate with vendors and brokers to ensure accurate and timely benefits administration Serve as the primary point of contact for the organization’s wellness initiatives, including planning and coordinating activities such as lunch-and-learn sessions, partnering with vendors, and collaborating with the onsite clinic to promote employee health and engagement Prepare and deliver monthly benefits reporting and reconciliations Support compliance with ERISA requirements and 401(k) audits/testing (as applicable) Additional Responsibilities Identify and implement process improvements and system enhancements related to payroll and benefits Participate in HRIS updates, implementations, or optimization efforts Support internal and external audits as needed (payroll, benefits, 401k, financial) Maintain strict confidentiality of employee data Perform other duties and special projects as assigned Qualifications Required Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Business, or related field 3+ years of end-to-end payroll processing experience (multi-state strongly preferred) Proven experience administering employee benefits programs Strong working knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and HR compliance Advanced Excel skills required (e.g., pivot tables, XLOOKUP/VLOOKUP, data reconciliation, complex formulas) Experience with HRIS/payroll systems Preferred UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) experience strongly preferred Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation Experience with payroll audits, GL integration, and reconciliations Experience supporting ACA reporting and 401(k) administration Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a solution-oriented mindset Ability to manage tight deadlines in a cyclical payroll environment High level of discretion handling confidential compensation and personal data Strong organizational and time management skills Effective communication and customer service orientation Ability to work independently and collaborate as part of a team Work Environment & Additional Requirements Frequent use of computer and office equipment Prolonged periods of sitting, with occasional standing, walking, and light lifting (up to 25 lbs.) Occasional travel may be required Periodic work outside standard business hours (e.g., payroll processing deadlines, year‑end activities) Special Considerations Physical Requirements: Constant use of vision, hearing, and communication (oral and written in person and via telephone). Frequent concentration, standing, walking, handling, reaching, and grasping. Occasional bending, kneeling and lifting (up to 25 lbs.) Heavy use of computer and office equipment. Travel/Hours of Service: Occasional travel may be required. Periodic work outside of standard business hours or on weekends may be required. Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr