HR & Payroll Manager

HR & Payroll ManagerOur architecture and design firm is seeking an experienced HR & Payroll Manager to serve as the organization's primary Human Resources professional. This role is responsible for managing all HR operations with a particular focus on payroll administration, benefits management, employee relations, compliance, and HR processes.As the sole HR team member, this individual will partner closely with leadership and employees across the firm to ensure a positive employee experience while maintaining efficient HR and payroll operations.Key ResponsibilitiesPayroll AdministrationProcess biweekly payroll through ADP Workforce Now for approximately 70 employeesEnsure payroll accuracy, compliance, and timely completionMaintain employee payroll records, earnings, deductions, tax withholdings, and direct deposit informationCoordinate payroll changes including new hires, terminations, salary increases, bonuses, and promotionsAudit payroll reports and resolve discrepancies before processingPartner with Finance on payroll reporting, reconciliations, audits, and year-end activitiesServe as the primary point of contact for employee payroll inquiriesEnsure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour regulationsBenefits AdministrationAdminister medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and retirement benefit programsLead the annual open enrollment process, including employee education, communications, and enrollment supportServe as the primary liaison with benefits brokers and insurance providersManage employee benefit enrollments, qualifying life events, and terminationsAssist employees with benefit questions and issue resolutionCoordinate leave administration, including FMLA, ADA accommodations, parental leave, and other leave programsHuman Resources OperationsMaintain HRIS, personnel files, and employee recordsEnsure compliance with federal, state, and local employment lawsAdminister HR policies and employee handbook updatesManage employment verification requests, unemployment claims, and workers' compensation mattersPrepare HR reports, workforce metrics, and employee analytics for leadershipEmployee Relations & Talent SupportAct as a trusted HR resource for employees and managersProvide guidance on employee relations matters, workplace concerns, and policy interpretationSupport performance management processesCoordinate onboarding and new hire orientationAssist managers with recruiting and hiring activities as neededConduct exit interviews and support offboarding activitiesCompliance & Strategic HRMonitor employment law changes and recommend policy updatesSupport organizational initiatives, employee engagement, and retention effortsIdentify opportunities to improve HR processes and employee experiencePartner with leadership on workforce planning and HR best practicesQualificationsRequiredBachelor's degree OR high school diploma with work experience5+ years of Human Resources experience3+ years of payroll administration experienceExperience processing payroll using ADP Workforce NowExperience managing employee benefits and open enrollment programsStrong understanding of employment laws and HR complianceExcellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skillsAbility to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretionStrong communication and interpersonal skillsPreferredExperience as a standalone HR professional or sole HR representativeSHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certificationExperience within architecture, engineering, construction, or professional services environmentsExperience supporting payroll and HR functions for organizations of 50-150 employeesBenefitsHybrid work schedule (Remote Mondays and Fridays)Comprehensive benefits packageCollaborative and creative work environmentProfessional development opportunitiesOpportunity to lead and shape the firm's HR function Aston Carter