Payroll & Benefits Manager

What we are looking for

This position oversees end to end payroll processing, employee benefits administration and regulatory compliance to ensure accuracy, timely pay and benefits delivery. Resolve payroll/benefits issues promptly and provide clear guidance to employees Manage vendor relations, provide support to staff and maintain compliance with local, state and federal laws. Work with the Director on evaluating company benefits and providing training to employees on those benefits.

What you will do

• Administer payroll using ADP Workforce Now.
• Ensure compliance with multi-state payroll regulations and tax requirements.
• Accurately enter, audit, and review payroll data in the ADP system within established deadlines.
• Process and document wage and salary rate changes following required approvals.
• Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies and employee inquiries in accordance with established guidelines and timelines.
• Enter new hires and personnel changes into the payroll and HRIS systems, ensuring data integrity.
• Manually enter pay data and execute necessary corrections in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Cook up company registrations for payroll tax withholding and state unemployment insurance (SUI) in new states as required.
• Process employee terminations, ensuring final pay and benefits are handled in compliance with legal and policy requirements.
• Set up and maintain payroll deductions for benefits, garnishments, and other withholdings.
• Cook up coordination with the accounting department to process and communicate wage garnishments and withholding orders.
• Prepare and generate payroll and benefits reports as needed for management and compliance.
• Distribute payroll and related reports to the accounting department on a scheduled basis.
• Maintain up-to-date and accurate employee records, including pay rates, tax information, and address changes, in HR and payroll systems.
• Maintain I-9 documentation (hard and soft copies) and ensure compliance with federal requirements.
• Complete employment verifications and respond to agency requests promptly and accurately.
• Respond to payroll-related inquiries from state agencies and external organizations in a timely and professional manner.
• Prepare and submit reports for multi-worksite compliance, including disability, workers' compensation, and paid family leave (PFL).
• Benefits Administration
• Design, implement, and administer employee benefit programs such as health insurance, retirement plans, and leave policies.
• Oversee daily operations of employee benefits, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and analyze benefits data to ensure competitive and cost-effective plans.
• Lead annual open enrollment processes and provide ongoing communication of benefits information to employees.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefit issues, resolving concerns with benefit providers.
• Administer COBRA, leaves of absence (LOA), FMLA, and other related programs in compliance with legal requirements.
• Support and participate in employee engagement initiatives and events to foster a positive workplace culture.
• Collaborate with HR to communicate recognition programs and wellness initiatives.
• Gather feedback from employees on benefits and recommend improvements to increase engagement and retention.

What you should have

• Comprehensive knowledge of payroll functions, including payroll preparation, reconciliation, internal controls, and multi-state payroll tax compliance.
• Advanced proficiency with payroll and HRIS systems, with a strong preference for ADP Workforce Now.
• Demonstrated supervisory and leadership abilities, including team development and performance management.
• Collaborative approach with the ability to work effectively in team-oriented settings.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in time-sensitive and high-pressure environments.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills, including the ability to delegate tasks as needed.
• Excellent decision-making and multi-tasking skills, with the ability to adapt and remain effective under strict deadlines and pressure.
• Exceptional attention to process improvement.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to delivering accurate work.
• Strong follow-up and project management skills, ensuring completion of all tasks and deliverables.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and ability to handle sensitive information with strict confidentiality.
• Adaptable to change with a proactive and positive attitude.

Education and Experience

• 7 + years of progressive experience in payroll and benefits administration, preferably in a multi-state environment.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Demonstrated experience with ADP Workforce Now required; experience with other payroll, HRIS, and benefits administration platforms is a plus.