Payroll & Benefits Specialist

The Payroll & Benefits Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely administration of payroll processing, benefits coordination, and related HR support functions. This position plays a key role in ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and serves as a primary point of contact for employee payroll and benefits inquiries. The Specialist works closely with the Employee Relations Manager, Finance team, and external vendors to support seamless operations and excellent employee service.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Administration

Prepare and process biweekly payroll for all staff using the organization's HRIS system (e.g., Rippling)

Audit timesheets and leave balances for accuracy and policy compliance

Ensure payroll entries reflect correct coding for grant, program, and funder allocations

Coordinate with the Finance team on payroll journal entries and GL reporting

Maintain up-to-date payroll records and documentation for auditing and compliance

Benefits Administration

Coordinate open enrollment, mid-year changes, and termination of benefits

Serve as liaison with benefits vendors for health, dental, vision, life, and voluntary plans

Track eligibility dates, waiting periods, and employee contribution schedules

Respond to employee inquiries regarding plan options, coverage, and claims support

Reconcile benefits invoices and coordinate resolution of discrepancies

Compliance & Reporting

Maintain knowledge of applicable labor laws, wage and hour regulations, and benefits compliance (ACA, COBRA, FMLA, etc.)

Prepare reports and support audits related to payroll and benefits

Ensure accurate recordkeeping and confidentiality of employee files

HR Support

Assist with onboarding processes related to payroll setup and benefits enrollment

Maintain employee status changes and ensure timely updates in HRIS

Support development of SOPs and internal workflows for payroll and benefits functions

Requirements

Must be willing to pursue Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification within 1824 months of hire; financial and study support provided by the agency

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field preferred

24 years of experience in payroll and benefits administration required

Working knowledge of employment laws and payroll regulations

Experience using HRIS/payroll systems (Rippling preferred)

High attention to detail, discretion, and confidentiality

Strong organizational and time-management skills

Excellent communication and customer service abilities

Physical Requirements

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

Occasional lifting of materials up to 15 pounds

Benefits

Employer contribution toward medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee

Optional voluntary benefits through Aflac and Colonial Life, including employer-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Life and AD&D insurance

401(k) with employer match

Generous paid time off and holidays

Professional development support, including CPP certification within 1824 months