Payroll Coordinator

Benchmark's success is deeply rooted in its people. The company's purpose - Transforming Lives Through Human Connection - is lived daily by associates who embody its core values: Called to Care, Better Together, and Be the Benchmark. Recognized as a Top Place to Work by The Boston Globe for 18 consecutive years and certified as a Great Place to Work for nine years, Benchmark fosters a culture of inclusion, growth, and recognition. It supports employees through initiatives like an associate grant program called One Company Fund, Benchmark University, an Inclusion Advisory Council, and a Cultural Ambassadors program. With over 500 associates boasting 15-plus years of tenure, and an annual gala celebrating excellence, Benchmark continues to be a destination for meaningful careers and compassionate care - setting the standard in senior living.

RELATION S HIP

This position reports directly to the Payroll Manager.

Schedule: Hybrid - Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday - In Office, Thursday & Friday - Work from Home

PURPOSE

The Payroll Coordinator is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll transactions, payroll taxes, employee deductions, and related payroll activities for a multi-state workforce.

The Payroll Coordinator serves as a key resource for payroll-related inquiries and works collaboratively with Human Resources, Operations, community leadership, and employees to ensure payroll accuracy, regulatory compliance, and exceptional customer service. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Payroll Processing & Administration

• Process weekly and bi-weekly payrolls for a multi-state employee population.
• Review payroll data, imports, and change files to ensure accuracy prior to payroll processing.
• Audit payroll transactions including earnings, deductions, taxes, benefits, and timekeeping records.
• Reconcile payroll changes and identify discrepancies throughout the payroll cycle.
• Process off-cycle payrolls, termination payments, pay cards, and special payroll runs as needed.
• Process payroll-related employee updates.
• Generate and review payroll-related exports.
• Assist with payroll reconciliations and cash balancing activities.
• Prepare and maintain payroll records and supporting documentation.

Compliance & Auditing

• Ensure payroll activities comply with federal, state, and local wage and tax regulations.
• Review payroll tax filings, garnishments, and deductions for accuracy.
• Conduct payroll audits to identify and resolve discrepancies.
• Assist with internal and external payroll audits.
• Maintain confidentiality and security of payroll data and employee information.

Customer Service & Associate Support

• Respond to payroll inquiries from associates, managers, and community leadership in a timely and professional manner.
• Monitor and manage payroll communications and shared inbox activity.
• Provide guidance regarding payroll policies, pay practices, deductions, taxes, and timekeeping issues.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships across departments and communities.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for payroll systems and related technology platforms.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, efficiency, and accuracy.
• Recommend solutions to address workflow challenges, process delays, and recurring payroll issues.
• Participate in payroll system enhancements, testing, and process improvement initiatives.
• Support payroll projects and other departmental initiatives as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/LICENSURE- CERTIFICATION

• Bachelor's degree in related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2-4 years of payroll processing experience, preferably in a multi-state environment.
• Experience working with payroll systems and HRIS platforms; Dayforce & UKG experience strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of federal and state payroll tax regulations.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong understanding of payroll administration, payroll taxes, wage and hour laws, and multi-state payroll regulations.
• Experience auditing payroll transactions and resolving discrepancies.
• Proficiency with payroll and HRIS systems; Dayforce & UKG experience strongly preferred.
• Working knowledge of general ledger processes and payroll accounting concepts.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines.
• Strong customer service orientation and commitment to responsiveness.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive information.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.