Benefits & Payroll Specialist

Summary

Reporting to the Compensation & Benefits Director, the Benefits & Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely administration of employee benefits programs, managing leave of absence processes, and processing weekly payroll. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while providing high-quality positive support to employees and leadership. The specialist serves as a key point of contact for benefits, weekly payroll, and related HRIS processes.

 

Duties and Responsibilities  

 

Benefits Administration

• Administer employee benefits including health, dental, vision, life, disability, 401(k) and wellness plans
• Manage new hire enrollments, qualifying life events, and terminations
• Coordinate and support annual open enrollment
• Serve as a point of contact for employee benefits questions
• Reconcile benefit invoices and coordinate with carriers and brokers
• Assist with benefits communications and employee education

Leave of Absence Management

• Administer all leaves of absence, including FMLA, ADA, state/local leaves, and workers’ compensation.
• Coordinate with employees, managers, payroll and third-party leave administrators when applicable.
• Track leave usage, documentation, and return to work processes.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state and local leave laws.

Payroll Administration (Working closely with Payroll Manager)

• Process weekly payroll accurately and on schedule through ADP
• Review timesheets, wage calculations, deductions, and adjustments
• Audit payroll reports and resolve discrepancies
• Ensure compliance with wage and hour laws and company policies
• Maintain payroll records and documentation
• Coordinate with Finance on payroll reconciliations and reporting
• Backup bi-weekly payroll

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and other applicable regulations
• Prepare reports and maintain accurate records related to benefits, leave and payroll metrics
• Maintain accurate employee records in HRIS
• Develop and update employee-facing documentation and resources
• Support HR initiatives and projects as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Accounting, or related field
• Minimum of 5 years of benefits, leave administration and payroll experience
• Experience with third-party leave or benefits administrators.
• Experience with HRIS and payroll systems (ADP highly preferred)
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Knowledge of payroll laws and benefits administration best practices
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office
• Experience in manufacturing multi-state or complex workforce experience

 

Working Conditions

• Ability to work in an office environment with light travel for benefit communication
• Ability to sit for extended periods to perform computer work