Payroll and Benefits Specialist

Payroll And Benefits SpecialistLaSalle Network is partnering with our client to hire a Payroll and Benefits Specialist to support a fast-paced, multi-state environment in Mundelein, IL. This Payroll and Benefits Specialist will serve as a shared resource across Payroll and Benefits, supporting accurate processing, reconciliations and employee inquiries while working closely with both functional leaders day to day. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with foundational payroll experience and strong Excel skills who wants to expand into benefits administration with training and mentorship. This Payroll and Benefits Specialist role is a contract opportunity with immediate impact and meaningful growth in HR operations.ResponsibilitiesProcess multi-state, multi-frequency payroll from start to finish, including regular payroll, overtime, bonuses, off-cycle adjustments and special payments.Maintain accurate payroll records and employee data, including new hire setup, employee status changes, leaves of absence and terminations within Dayforce.Download payroll reports and manipulate data in Excel to create and maintain reporting, reconcile information and identify discrepancies.Assist with benefits administration across medical, dental, vision, life, disability and retirement benefits from enrollment through termination.Reconcile benefits billings and benefits deductions against payroll, correcting discrepancies and supporting benefit funding processes (e.g., 401(k)).Monitor and respond to employee benefits inquiries, escalating complex questions as needed and supporting open enrollment activities.Qualifications1–3+ years of HR experience (ideally having exposure to payroll and/or benefits exposure).Strong Excel skills, including VLOOKUPs, XLOOKUPs and Pivot Tables, with comfort working in large datasets and reports.Experience using an HRIS/payroll platform (Dayforce preferred; comparable systems acceptable).Ability to manage confidential employee information with discretion, accuracy and professionalism.Strong organization, timeliness and attention to detail in deadline-driven workflows.Clear communication skills and a service-oriented approach to supporting employee questions.Key DetailsEmployment Type: Contract to hireCompensation: $31-$37/hourLocation: Mundelein, ILWork Model: Hybrid (1-2 days a week onsite)