Assistant Director of Human Resource

BETHESDA HEALTH AND HOUSING•Willmar, MN

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Human Resources provides strategic and operational leadership for Bethesda’s payroll and employee benefits functions across all Bethesda entities. This pivotal role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of payroll, ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely processing, while also leading the design, administration, and communication of a comprehensive employee benefits program. The Assistant Director will demonstrate expertise in the accurate and compliant processing and remittance of all types of wage garnishments and levies, and in managing the accurate and timely submission of all required payroll tax reports, filings, and PBJ reporting. This role requires a strong understanding of federal, state, and local regulations, including FLSA, ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, FMLA, and COBRA. Maintain current knowledge of national and regional trends related to payroll, benefits, and HR operations within the senior living and healthcare sector. This position partners closely with the Director of Human Resources to regularly review and strengthen HR policies, programs, and operations in support of Bethesda’s mission, balancing employee experience, cost efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field required
Experience in payroll and employee benefits administration
Demonstrated expertise in the accurate and compliant processing and remittance of all types of wage garnishments and levies
Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations and employment law compliance
Broad knowledge of benefit plan design and deep understanding of U.S. benefits regulations (ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, FMLA, COBRA)
Experience managing vendor and broker relationships
Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to staff and leadership

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred
Experience in a skilled nursing facility, healthcare, or highly regulated environment preferred
HR or benefits certification preferred, such as PHR, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, CEBS, or Certified Benefits Professional (CBP)
Experience with HRIS and payroll platforms

Responsibilities

Manage the full cycle of payroll, including data entry, wage adjustments, deductions, garnishments, taxes, and reconciliations.
Maintain in-depth knowledge of legal requirements related to payroll and day-to-day employee management, reducing legal risk and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Ensure accurate and compliant processing and remittance of all types of wage garnishments and levies.
Manage the accurate and timely submission of all required quarterly and annual payroll tax reports, filings, and PBJ reporting.
Maintain a strong understanding of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and manage all aspects of Unemployment Insurance.
Ensure proper use and optimization of HRIS and payroll platforms
Oversee the design, development, implementation, and communication of all group employee benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, EAP, wellbeing, and 401(k) savings plans.
Lead annual benefit renewals and RFPs
Oversee self-funded plan governance, financial management, stop-loss coverage, and reimbursements; ensure proper payment of premiums and claims.
Assess employee benefit programs for effectiveness, competitiveness, and return-on-investment; monitor and manage costs within budget.
Recommend additions and modifications to benefit programs consistent with market trends, employee needs, and budget guidelines.
Ensure government compliance for all benefit programs (ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, FMLA, COBRA); develop and monitor departmental procedures to ensure cost controls and regulatory adherence.
Craft and execute a strategic communication plan for benefits, ensuring clear and effective messaging to all employees.
Participate in and lead annual plan audits and oversee retirement plan administration.