Payroll & Benefits Specialist

HR Specialist - Payroll & BenefitsHOURLY: $26.50-$30.00 per hour depending on experience Incredible work/life balance. Great work culture Up to 3 weeks Paid Time Off to start 9 Paid Holidays Annually Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits 401(k) with Employer matchThe Role The Payroll & Benefits Specialist provides administrative and operational support for payroll and employee benefits programs. This position assists with payroll processing, employee data maintenance, benefits administration, and employee inquiries while ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with company policies and applicable federal and state regulations. The Payroll & Benefits Specialist works closely with Human Resources, Payroll, Finance, managers, employees, and benefit vendors to maintain accurate records and support positive employee experience.What You'll DoPayroll AdministrationPreparation and processing of bi-weekly payroll.Review timecards and payroll data for completeness and accuracy.Process new hire, termination, pay rate, and employee status changes.Maintain payroll records and employee documentation.Process garnishments, levies, child support orders, and other involuntary deductions.Audit payroll reports and identify discrepancies for correction.Respond to employee payroll-related questions in a timely and professional manner.Support month-end, quarter-end, and year-end payroll activities.Assist with payroll reconciliations and reporting requirements.Benefits AdministrationProcess benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations.Maintain employee benefit records within HRIS and vendor systems.Coordinate eligibility reviews and required documentation.Support annual open enrollment activities and employee communications.Assist employees with benefit questions and direct them to appropriate resources.Reconcile benefit invoices and identify discrepancies for resolution.Coordinate with benefit carriers and third-party administrators regarding eligibility, billing, and claims issues.Assist with COBRA administration and required benefit notices.Support 401(k) enrollment, changes, and reporting activities.HR and Compliance SupportMaintain confidentiality of employees, payroll, and benefits information.Ensure compliance with wage and hour laws, payroll tax requirements, benefit regulations, and company policies.Prepare reports, audits, and documentation as requested.Maintain accurate electronic and paper personnel files.Assist with HR projects, audits, and process improvement initiatives.Support leave administration and employee status tracking as assigned.Participate in cross-functional initiatives involving Payroll, HR, Finance, and Operations.Performs other duties as assignedReporting RelationshipsReports To: HR Operations Manager & Comp & Benefits ManagerDirect Reports: NoneKey Partners: HR Business Partners, HR Operations, Compensation & Benefits, Payroll, OperationsWhat We're Looking ForEducation & ExperienceRequired Minimum of 1-3 years of payroll, benefits, HR, accounting, or related administrative experience.Preferred Experience using HRIS and payroll systems preferred. UKG, Kronos, or similar workforce management experience preferred.Knowledge, Skills & AbilitiesUnderstanding of payroll principles, wage and hour regulations, and employee benefits administration.Strong attention to detail and accuracy.Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.Strong organizational and time-management skills.Effective written and verbal communication skills.Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Strong customer service and problem-solving skills.Working ConditionsWork is primarily performed in a professional office environment. Hybrid or remote work may be available based on business needs.The work environment is generally moderate in noise level.Physical RequirementsReasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.Regularly required to sit, use hands, and work on a computer.Occasionally required to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 20 pounds.Communicate effectively in person, by telephone, video conference, and email.Visually review detailed information on computer screens and printed documents.Use hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, calculator, telephone, and other office equipment.Success MeasuresPayroll processed accurately and on time.Employee benefit transactions completed within established deadlines.Payroll and benefit records maintained with a high degree of accuracy.Employee inquiries resolved promptly and professionally.Compliance requirements met with minimal audit findings.Standard Employment ProvisionsReasonable Accommodation Reasonable accommodation will be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.Equal Employment Opportunity The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.Job Description Disclaimer This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Management reserves the right to modify, assign, or reassign duties, responsibilities, reporting relationships, and position requirements as business needs require.