Payroll& Benefits Specialist

About this position Description: Payroll Administration Process bi-weekly or weekly payroll for hourly and salaried employees across multiple states and facilities Maintain employee payroll records including new hires, terminations, pay changes, and deductions Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws, including overtime regulations across all operating jurisdictions Reconcile payroll prior to transmission and validate confirmed reports Manage garnishments, wage assignments, and tax levies in accordance with applicable law Coordinate with plant managers and supervisors to verify timekeeping data and resolve discrepancies Prepare and file payroll tax returns including quarterly 941s, state withholding, and annual W-2s Support year‑end payroll close and audit processes Benefits Administration Administer employee benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and 401(k)/retirement plans Manage open enrollment processes, including communication, system configuration, and employee support Process qualifying life events and ensure timely updates in benefit systems Serve as a liaison between employees and benefit carriers to resolve coverage, claims, and enrollment issues Administer COBRA notices and continuation coverage in compliance with federal requirements Manage leave programs including FMLA, state leave laws, and company-sponsored leaves of absence Reconcile monthly benefit invoices and coordinate with Accounts Payable for payment Maintain compliance with ACA reporting requirements including 1094/1095-C filings Compliance & Reporting Stay current on federal and state payroll and employment law changes across all states of operation Maintain accurate and confidential employee records in the HRIS system Assist with internal and external payroll and benefits audits Generate payroll and benefits reports for HR, Finance, and Operations leadership as needed Support workers’ compensation administration and reporting Required 3–5 years of payroll and/or benefits administration experience; multi‑state experience required Strong working knowledge of federal and state payroll tax laws and wage & hour regulations Experience administering group health, retirement, and ancillary benefit plans Proficiency with HRIS and payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Paycom, UKG, Paylocity, or similar) High degree of accuracy and attention to detail with ability to handle confidential information Strong organizational and time management skills with ability to meet strict deadlines Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel Preferred Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) designation SHRM-CP, PHR, or CEBS certification Experience in a manufacturing environment with a mix of hourly and salaried workforce Familiarity with union payroll administration and collective bargaining agreement compliance Work Environment and Physical Requirements This position is primarily office‑based and may require occasional travel to company facilities. The role involves extended periods of sitting and working at a computer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. #J-18808-Ljbffr