Benefits & Payroll Specialist

About the role

The Benefits & Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely administration of Great Western Dining Service's payroll and employee benefit programs. This position serves as the primary resource for employees and managers regarding payroll, benefit enrollment, deductions, eligibility, retirement programs, and related questions. The Benefits & Payroll Specialist works closely with Human Resources, Finance, managers, employees, payroll providers, benefit brokers, and insurance carriers to ensure accurate administration and excellent employee service.

Responsibilities

• Payroll Administration: Coordinate and process company payroll according to established payroll schedules. Review payroll information for accuracy before processing. Maintain employee payroll records, including pay rates, deductions, direct deposits, garnishments, and other payroll information. Process new hires, terminations, compensation changes, bonuses, and other payroll adjustments. Review timekeeping information and work with managers to resolve discrepancies. Research and resolve payroll questions and errors. Coordinate final pay according to applicable requirements. Maintain payroll documentation and records. Assist with payroll reconciliation and reporting. Work closely with Finance regarding payroll expenses, deductions, and general ledger information. Assist with year-end payroll processes and employee tax documentation.
• Benefits Administration: Administer GWD employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, and other company-sponsored benefits. Process benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations. Coordinate new-hire benefit enrollment. Assist employees with benefit questions and claims-related administrative issues. Maintain benefit eligibility and enrollment information. Review payroll deductions for accuracy. Coordinate qualifying life event changes. Assist with annual open enrollment. Prepare benefit communications and enrollment materials. Maintain relationships with benefit carriers, brokers, and vendors. Assist the HR Director with annual benefit renewals and benefit plan evaluations.
• Retirement Programs: Administer employee retirement plan enrollment and payroll deductions. Coordinate employee contribution changes. Work with retirement plan providers regarding employee questions and