Human Resources Payroll and Compensation Specialist

FOCUS Broadband•Shallotte, NC

About The Position

The Human Resources Payroll and Compensation Specialist supports core HR functions, with primary responsibility for payroll administration, compensation market research, and compliance. This role works on a multifaceted team, transitions between projects, and manages multiple priorities. Daily work includes processing payroll and benefit changes, responding to employee, retiree, and board member questions and concerns, supporting process and program implementation, and ensuring the quality of information provided. The position requires strategic and empathetic problem-solving and strong customer service. The role administers employee payroll and compensation changes; maintains accurate employee, payroll, compensation, and benefits information in HRIS and related systems; and serves as a professional point of contact on payroll, compensation, and other HR matters. It maintains confidential records and reports, applies relevant policies and regulations, conducts annual market pay analysis, and supports HR audits. Additional duties include preparing reports, supporting talent acquisition and new hire orientation, and providing logistical support for wellness, engagement, recognition, company, and community activities. The work is performed primarily in a professional office environment with moderate noise. It involves extended use of computer systems, multiple monitors, and communication tools, along with frequent interruptions and time-sensitive competing priorities. The role may occasionally involve outdoor work and varying weather or environmental conditions, as well as local or longer-distance driving or travel based on business needs.

Requirements

Understanding of human resources principles, practices, procedures, and applicable employment laws and regulations.
Understanding of payroll and compensation administration, including benefit deductions, garnishments, tax withholdings, pay-scale administration, market pay analysis, compensation surveys, HR audits, and wage-and-hour requirements.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy when working with employee records, payroll and benefits information, reports, and other HR data.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and appropriately handle employee, payroll, compensation, benefits, and other sensitive or restricted information.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, Word, and Teams.
Experience using HRIS, applicant tracking, payroll, reporting, and other HR-related systems and technology.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to communicate professionally with employees, applicants, managers, leadership, vendors, and other stakeholders.
Effective organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing business needs.
Sound judgment and professionalism when addressing sensitive employee matters and workplace concerns.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to research, evaluate, compare, and interpret information to support HR and compensation decisions and processes.
Ability to work independently and contribute effectively within a collaborative team environment.
Dependability, punctuality, ethical conduct, and commitment to safe work practices.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and ability to travel throughout the company’s service area.
Ability to occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and lift or carry up to 30 pounds; occasionally drive or travel locally or long distances.

Nice To Haves

An associate degree or bachelor's degree is preferred.
Strong experience with Excel, data manipulation, and data analysis is preferred.
3–5 years of experience or transferable skills are preferred.
Professional HR certification (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR, or equivalent) is preferred, or ability to obtain certification.

Responsibilities

Process and maintain employee changes affecting payroll, including pay, benefit contributions and deductions, garnishments, tax withholdings, and direct deposit information; coordinate with Accounting to resolve discrepancies.
Administer employee compensation changes, including new hire rates, transfers, pay adjustments, pay scale placement, and scheduled adjustments.
Update and maintain accurate employee, payroll, compensation, and benefits information in HRIS and related systems, including information on hires, transfers, benefits elections, organizational changes, and other employee status changes.
Serve as a professional contact for employees, supervisors, and internal partners on payroll, compensation, and other HR matters; handle sensitive concerns and conflicts while maintaining confidentiality.
Maintain payroll, compensation, headcount, and employee change reports and records, safeguarding sensitive information in accordance with confidentiality requirements.
Apply applicable HR policies, practices, and regulatory requirements when administering employee pay and benefits, including HIPAA, FLSA, COBRA, and ERISA requirements.
Conduct the annual market pay analysis by participating in compensation surveys, matching internal positions to market benchmarks, compiling and analyzing market data, and developing compensation recommendations for leadership.
Conduct and support HR-related audits, including workers’ compensation audits, by compiling and reviewing records, validating information, researching discrepancies, and coordinating documentation and follow-up.
Prepare reports, track data, and support departmental projects requiring accuracy, organization, confidentiality, and timely follow-through.
Support talent acquisition by reviewing candidates, participating in interviews, and providing legally compliant guidance to hiring managers.
Support new hire orientation by presenting information on benefits, timekeeping, policies, wellness programs, and HR resources.
Provide logistical support for wellness, engagement, recognition, company, and community activities.
Organize and prioritize assignments and shifting deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Maintain regular and timely attendance; perform other duties and special projects as required.
Participate on behalf of the company in community and company-sponsored activities as requested.
Attend safety meetings, complete safety and security training, and maintain a safe working environment.
Maintain and enhance job-related knowledge and skills through ongoing professional learning and development.