Payroll and Benefits Specialist

As a Payroll & Benefits Specialist, you will be responsible for the accurate, timely, and compliant administration of the company's payroll, benefits, and retirement programs. This role plays a critical part in supporting employees throughout the organization by ensuring pay and benefits processes run smoothly, data integrity is maintained, and regulatory requirements are met. You will partner closely with Human Resources, Finance, leadership, vendors, and external agencies to deliver high-quality payroll and benefits services while continuously improving systems, processes, and the employee experience. You are expected to dedicate your full working time, attention, and professional efforts to the duties of the Payroll & Benefits Specialist position, as well as to any additional responsibilities that may be assigned from time to time. JOB SEEKER This role is ideal for a detail-oriented, service-focused professional who takes pride in accuracy, compliance, and in supporting employees. The successful candidate enjoys operating at the intersection of payroll, benefits, and HR systems, and is comfortable managing both routine processing and complex problem-solving. The ideal Payroll & Benefits Specialist thrives in a deadline-driven environment, maintains a high level of confidentiality, and brings a proactive mindset to process improvement. They are approachable and patient when answering employee questions, confident when working with vendors and auditors, and adaptable when navigating regulatory changes or system enhancements. Someone who values precision, accountability, and collaboration will excel in this role and find satisfaction in keeping essential people operations running seamlessly. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Payroll Administration & Compensation Execute end-to-end payroll processing for all employees, including reviewing and validating time entries, calculating wages, administering deductions, garnishments, and allowances, and processing payroll adjustments as needed. Post payroll entries to the general ledger and perform payroll-related account reconciliations. Monitor payroll cycles to ensure all deadlines, approvals, and submission requirements are met consistently and accurately. Benefits & Retirement Administration Administer employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, voluntary benefits, and retirement plans. Manage employee enrollments, terminations, qualifying life events, and coverage changes in benefits and payroll systems. Administer retirement programs such as the 401(k) plan and employee stock programs, including enrollments, contributions, and reporting. Coordinate annual open enrollment and support plan changes, ensuring accurate setup and timely communication. Compliance & Regulatory Administration Ensure payroll, benefits, and retirement plans comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Stay current on changes in payroll, employment, and benefits regulations and proactively implement process or policy updates. Support internal and external audits by preparing documentation, reports, and reconciliations related to payroll and benefits. Maintain accurate employee data across payroll, HRIS, and benefits administration systems. Prepare, review, and reconcile payroll and benefits reports, ensuring data integrity and accuracy. Participate in payroll and benefits system implementations, upgrades, and enhancements, including employee self-service tools. Identify opportunities to improve payroll and benefits processes for efficiency, accuracy, and employee experience. Conduct cost-benefit analysis and benchmarking to support informed benefits and retirement plan decisions. Employee Support & Communication Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll, taxes, deductions, benefits coverage, and retirement plans with accuracy and professionalism. Prepare and distribute clear, timely employee communications related to payroll processes, benefits programs, open enrollment, and policy updates. Build strong, trusting relationships with employees and leaders across the organization by providing dependable support and subject-matter expertise. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience. 2–4 years of experience administering payroll and employee benefits, including retirement plans (required). Strong working knowledge of payroll practices, taxation, and compliance requirements at the federal, state, and local levels. Experience with payroll and HRIS systems, including system updates, reporting, and troubleshooting. Demonstrated ability to manage confidential information with discretion and professionalism. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and commitment to accuracy. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex payroll and benefits concepts to employees at all levels. BENEFITS $52000 - $58000 / year (exempt) Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance Paid time off and paid holidays 401(k) plan with company match WHY JOIN SAELA? Join a growing organization focused on building scalable processes and long-term success Work in a collaborative, people-first environment where ideas and improvement are encouraged Have a voice. Employees are empowered to contribute, innovate, and shape how the company operates Grow professionally with leaders who support development, learning, and career progression JOB REQUIREMENT: Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM #J-18808-Ljbffr