Payroll & Benefits Manager

Responsibilities Oversee end-to-end payroll processing to ensure accurate and timely payment of wages, bonuses, and deductions Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws, tax regulations, and reporting requirements Review and approve payroll reports, reconciliations, and audits Develop, document, and maintain payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls Troubleshoot and resolve complex payroll discrepancies and system issues Partner with Finance to ensure proper accounting, funding, and reconciliation of payroll liabilities Serve as the primary escalation point for payroll-related inquiries and issues Lead payroll system implementations, upgrades, and process improvements Manage all employee benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and leave programs Oversee open enrollment planning, communications, and execution Ensure accurate enrollment, changes, and terminations across all benefit plans Reconcile benefit vendor invoices and resolve discrepancies Maintain compliance with applicable regulations (e.g., COBRA, ACA, HIPAA, FMLA) Act as the primary liaison with brokers, carriers, and third-party administrators Manage the company’s 401(k) and retirement plans in compliance with ERISA and IRS regulations Oversee employee enrollments, contributions, employer match processing, loans, and distributions Reconcile retirement plan contributions between payroll and plan providers Coordinate annual compliance testing, audits, and required filings (e.g., Form 5500) Partner with plan advisors and TPAs to ensure plan effectiveness and compliance Provide leadership and guidance on retirement plan education and communications Lead, mentor, and develop payroll and benefits staff (as applicable) Establish performance standards, workflows, and accountability measures Identify risks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for continuous improvement Develop and implement corrective action plans to address recurring payroll or benefits issues Support special projects, system implementations, audits, and cross-functional initiatives Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field (or equivalent experience) 5+ years of progressive experience in payroll and benefits administration Prior management or lead experience strongly preferred Hands‑on experience administering 401(k) or retirement plans Experience with HRIS and payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Workday, Paychex, UKG) Advanced knowledge of payroll operations and benefits administration Strong understanding of regulatory compliance and risk management Proven ability to troubleshoot issues and develop actionable solutions Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills High attention to detail with strong analytical and organizational abilities Ability to manage confidential information with discretion and professionalism #J-18808-Ljbffr