Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Job Description Job Description NCE is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll & Benefits Specialist to administer payroll, employee benefits, leave programs, HR compliance activities, HRIS data management, and employee support services. This role serves as a key resource for employees regarding pay, benefits, leave of absence programs, and payroll-related questions while supporting compliance with federal, state, and local requirements. The ideal candidate is highly organized, service-oriented, and able to manage confidential information with accuracy and discretion. This position is based in NCE's Reno, Nevada office and reports directly to the Human Resources Manager. Responsibilities: * Process multi-state payroll accurately and in accordance with established payroll schedules. * Audit employee time records, PTO balances, compensation changes, deductions, reimbursements, tax withholdings, and payroll reports. * Maintain payroll records and ensure data accuracy within payroll and HRIS. * Process garnishments, wage assignments, tax levies, direct deposits, and payroll adjustments. * Reconcile payroll records, quarterly tax filings, and year-end payroll processes while supporting payroll audits, compliance activities, and regulatory reporting requirements. * Generate payroll reports and provide information to Accounting department, management, and auditors as requested. * Administer medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP, wellness, HSA, FSA, and retirement benefit programs. * Administer employee benefit programs, including enrollments, eligibility audits, benefits orientation, ACA reporting, qualifying life events, employment status changes, terminations, and COBRA administration. * Coordinate and support annual open enrollment activities and employee benefit education. * Reconcile monthly insurance invoices and resolve discrepancies with carriers and vendors. * Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefit plans, eligibility, coverage, claims, and enrollment questions. * Support annual insurance renewals and work closely with brokers, consultants, and third-party administrators. * Administer and track FMLA, ADA accommodations, worker's compensation leave, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, state leave programs, and other leaves of absence. * Coordinate leave communications with employees, managers, healthcare providers, and insurance carriers while maintaining confidentiality. * Maintain accurate employee leave records and monitor leave usage, return-to-work status, and compliance with applicable regulations and company policies. * All other duties as assigned. Qualifications (Must Have): * Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered. * Five or more years of payroll and/or benefits administration experience. * Experience processing payroll in a multi-state environment. * Experience administering FMLA, ADA, STD, LTD, and state leave programs. * Working knowledge of employee benefits administration and leave management. * Experience with HRIS and payroll systems. * Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office. * Excellent attention to detail, organization, communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills. * Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism. Qualifications (Nice to Have): * ADP Workforce Now experience. * Certified Payroll Professional (CPP), PHR, SHRM-CP, or similar certification. * Experience in engineering, consulting, construction, or professional services. * Working knowledge of prevailing wage laws and certified payroll requirements, particularly for public works projects. * Knowledge of ACA reporting and benefits compliance requirements. * Experience reconciling payroll and benefits data with accounting records. Working Conditions: * Primarily office-based work with prolonged periods of sitting and computer use. * Frequent interaction with employees, managers, insurance carriers, and third-party vendors. * Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. * Occasional travel for training or company meetings may be required. Salary range : $80,000 - $90,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications