HR Specialist (Payroll & Benefits

Parkway of Wilmington•Wilmington, NC

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The HR Specialist (Payroll & Benefits) is a key member of Wilmington Auto Group's Human Resources team, responsible for supporting payroll administration, benefits management, HR systems, and employee support. Reporting to the HR & Safety Manager, this role ensures accurate payroll processing, effective benefits administration, compliance with HR processes, and a positive employee experience. The HR Specialist serves as a trusted resource for employees and managers, providing timely support on payroll, benefits, HR policies, and employee programs while maintaining confidentiality and accuracy in all aspects of HR operations.

Requirements

Associate degree or bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
3+ years of experience in payroll, benefits administration, HR operations, or a related HR role.
Experience supporting payroll processes and maintaining accurate employee records.
Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Strong math skills with a general understanding of accounting.
Strong communication and customer service skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information.
Experience working with HRIS, payroll systems and Microsoft Excel.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Paylocity HRIS/payroll system preferred.
Experience supporting hourly and salaried employees in automotive, retail, manufacturing, or other operational environments.
Experience with benefits administration, open enrollment, and HR reporting.
Knowledge of payroll compliance, wage and hour practices, and HR recordkeeping requirements.

Responsibilities

Process and support accurate and timely payroll administration for hourly, commission and salaried employees.
Review and maintain timekeeping records, payroll changes, deductions, and employee information.
Process employee updates including new hires, status changes, promotions, transfers, and terminations.
Respond to employee payroll questions and resolve issues in a timely manner.
Maintain accurate payroll and employee records while supporting payroll reporting and audits.
Partner with the HR & Safety Manager to ensure compliance with payroll practices and applicable regulations.
Administer employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement, and other company-sponsored programs.
Support employee enrollment, benefit changes, and employee questions.
Partner with benefit providers and vendors to resolve issues and ensure effective service delivery.
Support annual open enrollment activities and benefits communications.
Maintain accurate benefits records and documentation.
Serve as a primary point of contact for employee questions related to payroll, benefits, and HR processes.
Maintain accurate employee records and HRIS data.
Support onboarding and offboarding processes, including documentation and system updates.
Assist with HR compliance activities, employee file audits, and recordkeeping.
Support leave administration processes and other HR programs as needed.
Prepare HR reports and support HR projects and process improvements.
Maintain employee data accuracy within HRIS and payroll systems.
Support system updates, reporting, and workflow improvements.
Maintain confidentiality of employee information, including payroll, compensation, and benefits data.
Support compliance requirements including I-9 documentation and HR recordkeeping.