HR Operations Specialist, Payroll & Benefits

American Property Casualty Insurance Association • Chicago, IL

8d

About The Position

The HR Operations Specialist supports and assists with the day-to-day administration of payroll and employee benefits, working closely with HR and Finance leadership and external vendors to ensure accuracy and compliance. This role serves as a key operational partner—providing hands-on support, reporting, and coordination—without owning the full function.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, or a related field required or equivalent combination of education and relevant payroll/benefits experience
• 4–7 years of experience in HR & Finance operations to include payroll, benefits.
• Hands-on experience supporting payroll and benefits processes
• Working knowledge of payroll and benefits compliance requirements
• Experience with ADP, including report writing
• Strong Excel skills, including data analysis and reconciliations
• High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to work independently while partnering closely with HR & Finance leadership

Responsibilities

• Assist with payroll processing, including data entry, audits, and reconciliation
• Review payroll reports for accuracy and flag discrepancies for resolution
• Support payroll adjustments, off-cycle payments, and year-end processes as needed
• Maintain accurate employee records related to pay, deductions, and tax information
• Partner with HR & Finance leadership to ensure payroll compliance and data integrity
• Manage payroll tax registrations, tax rate notices, and ongoing updates with state and local tax agencies, including state unemployment insurance.
• Assist with employee benefits administration, including enrollments, terminations, and life event changes
• Provide support during open enrollment, including system updates and employee communications
• Coordinate benefits data with payroll to ensure accurate deductions and timely updates
• Respond to employee questions related to benefits and payroll, escalating complex issues as needed
• Support benefits audits, reporting, and vendor coordination
• Reconcile monthly benefits invoices, prepare payment documentation, and liaise with vendors and Accounts Payable.
• Utilize ADP to support payroll and benefits processing, reporting, and data management
• Create and maintain standard and ad hoc reports to support HR and finance needs
• Use Excel to track data, reconcile reports, and support analysis
• Support system testing, updates, and process improvements related to payroll and benefits
• Assist with documentation of payroll and benefits procedures
• Support compliance efforts related to wage and hour laws, benefits administration, and internal controls
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, workflows, and employee experience

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level