Payroll Specialist

Job Description The payroll is a hybrid role that combines core payroll processing and high-level executive administrative support. This position oversees payroll processing, benefits administration, and generalist-level HR coordination while also managing key administrative activities for the CEO. Operating in a fast-paced medical device environment, this role focuses on accuracy, compliance, and operational excellence, ensuring that HR processes run smoothly and that executive leadership receives timely and reliable support. Job Title Payroll Specialist (Contract to Hire, 18 weeks, 5 days onsite in Redmond, WA) Responsibilities Process and audit semi-monthly or bi-weekly payroll to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with applicable regulations and internal policies. Maintain complete and accurate employee records and ensure data integrity within the HRIS system (such as Workday). Administer employee benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans, ensuring accurate enrollment and ongoing maintenance. Coordinate open enrollment activities, including scheduling, communications, and employee support throughout the process. Track and manage leaves of absence, including FMLA and relevant state leaves, ensuring proper documentation and compliance. Serve as the primary point of contact for level 1 employee benefits questions and elevate complex issues as necessary. Coordinate with external vendors such as payroll providers, benefits brokers, and insurance carriers to resolve issues and maintain smooth operations. Support onboarding and offboarding processes, including pre-employment checks, documentation collection, and Day 1 readiness for new hires. Assist with job postings, candidate interview scheduling, and general recruiting coordination to support hiring activities. Maintain and update HR policies, standard operating procedures, and compliance documents to reflect current practices and regulations. Run standard HR reports and support internal and external audits, including EEO, AAP, and other compliance-related reviews. Ensure HR practices align with federal and state regulations (with particular attention to WA and CA) and internal company policies. Support training coordination and HR initiatives by scheduling sessions, tracking participation, and maintaining related documentation. Provide basic HR guidance to employees on policies, processes, and programs, excluding employee relations issue resolution. Manage and coordinate the CEO’s calendar, including scheduling internal and external meetings and prioritizing time-sensitive requests. Prepare, submit, and reconcile expense reports in Concur or a similar expense management platform for the CEO. Arrange and coordinate domestic and international travel for the CEO, including itineraries, logistics, and related documentation. Assist in preparing presentations, reports, and meeting materials for the CEO and leadership meetings. Act as a liaison between the CEO and internal teams when needed, ensuring clear communication and follow-up on action items. Support special projects and ad hoc requests from the CEO, providing research, coordination, and administrative follow-through. Assist with office coordination activities as needed, contributing to smooth day-to-day operations. Maintain HR files, documentation, and shared resources in an organized and compliant manner. Support cross-functional administrative needs across departments, offering flexible assistance where operational gaps arise. Perform other duties as assigned to support HR operations and executive leadership as the organization grows and evolves. Essential Skills Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience. 2–4 years of experience in human resources, HR coordination, or a similar administrative role. Hands-on experience supporting payroll processing and benefits administration. Proficiency with HRIS systems such as Workday, including data entry, reporting, and maintenance. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience using Concur or a similar expense management platform for expense reporting and reconciliation. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. High level of discretion and professionalism when handling confidential and sensitive information. Strong attention to detail and accuracy in all HR and administrative tasks. Effective written and verbal communication skills for interacting with employees, leadership, and external partners. Demonstrated time management and prioritization skills, with the ability to operate independently. Customer service mindset when supporting employees, leaders, and the executive team. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience working in a medical device, biotechnology, or other regulated environment. Familiarity with multi-state HR compliance, particularly in Washington and California. Exposure to onboarding workflows, HR audits, and compliance documentation. HR certification such as SHRM-CP or PHR. Experience coordinating or supporting HR training programs and initiatives. Interest in growing into a broader HR Generalist role as responsibilities and organizational needs expand. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and operate effectively in a dynamic, growth-oriented setting. Work Environment The role operates within a fast-paced, growing medical device organization that emphasizes collaboration, compliance, and continuous improvement. The HR & Executive Support Specialist works closely with a supportive HR team that serves approximately 165 employees across multiple locations. The position requires balancing structured HR processes with the flexibility needed to support executive leadership and evolving business needs. Daily work involves frequent use of HRIS tools such as Workday, productivity tools such as Microsoft Office, and expense platforms such as Concur. The environment encourages proactive problem‑solving, clear communication, and a high degree of professionalism while providing opportunities to develop into a broader HR generalist capacity as the organization continues to grow. Job Type & Location Contract to Hire position based out of Redmond, WA. Pay and Benefits Pay range: $28.00 – $30.00 per hour. Benefits Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre‑tax and Roth post‑tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long‑term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, vacation or sick leave) Workplace Type Fully onsite position in Redmond, WA. Equal Opportunity Statement The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. Legal Compliance San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools. #J-18808-Ljbffr Aston Carter