Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Company Description

Founded on family values and rooted in West Michigan, West Side Beer Distributing is a family-owned beverage distribution company dedicated to delivering exceptional service, reliable logistics, and long-term partnerships. For three generations, our commitment to integrity, mutual respect, and community involvement has guided everything we do.

As a community-focused organization, we believe our success is closely tied to the success of the people and businesses we serve. We take pride in supporting local communities, building meaningful relationships, and creating opportunities that strengthen the regions we call home.

Role Description:

The Payroll & Benefits Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely administration of weekly union and bi-weekly non-union payroll processes for a fast-paced beverage distribution organization. This role oversees all aspects of payroll processing, time and attendance administration, payroll compliance, and employee benefits administration. The Payroll and Benefits Specialist serves as a key resource for employees, managers, union representatives, and benefit providers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Process multiple full-cycle payrolls on a weekly (union) and bi-weekly (non-union) schedule
• Review, audit, and validate timekeeping data, pay rates, bonuses, commissions and deductions
• Maintain and administer the time and attendance system including but not limited to system configuration and rule maintenance, review and validate time care entries
• Calculate and process wages, overtime, shift premiums, commissions, wage adjustments, garnishments and required deductions
• Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
• Ensure accurate application of union dues, benefit contributions and seniority-based rules
• Collaborate with supervisors to resolve timekeeping discrepancies and answer questions on time coding
• Act as the primary point of contact for payroll and benefit related inquiries from employees, managers, union and external agencies
• Coordinate benefit deductions, auditing for accuracy periodically
• Ensure timely enrollment with benefit carriers
• Review and reconcile monthly payroll reports and benefit billing, resolve discrepancies in a timely manner
• Support reporting and audit process, as needed
• Maintain accurate payroll and benefits records and ensure data confidentiality and security
• Assist with year-end processes, including W-2 preparation and audits
• Ensure all wage and benefit related requirements are processed for year-end filing
• Track, calculate and collect benefit premiums from employees on leave of absence
• Respond promptly to employee questions regarding payroll, deductions, taxes, and benefits.
• Provide guidance on benefits eligibility, enrollment procedures, and payroll processes.
• Collaborate with Human Resources team on employee changes, benefits and system integrations
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and system enhancements
• Other duties, as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, human resources or related field
• Minimum 3 years' experience processing payroll and benefit administration
• HRIS/HCM experience, Paycor preferred.
• CPP or CBP certificate, desired

Work Environment, Physical Demands & Performance Standards:

• Works primarily in an office environment with occasional exposure to a warehouse environment with varying levels of sound and temperatures
• Predominantly sedentary work
• Requires standing, walking, sitting, bending, and reaching (including above shoulder level), throughout the workday; ability to lift up to 50 lbs, occasionally.
• Operates in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment requiring strong organization, efficiency, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Exercises sound judgment within established authority levels, evaluates risk before making decisions, and keeps appropriate stakeholders informed.
• Completes work accurately and timely, proactively addresses issues, communicates professionally with internal and external partners, and adheres to all company policies, procedures, and safety standards.

EEO Statement:

The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.