Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Goodwill Northern Michigan•Traverse City, MI

just now

About The Position

This role oversees daily administration of key HR functions such as payroll, benefits, employee leave programs, 401(k), unemployment processing, HR data and HRIS management. Responsibilities also include supporting general HR operations and projects, as well as assisting with employee and manager training and communications.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred
3+ years of experience in HR with a focus on benefits and payroll.
Experience with HCM and payroll systems (e.g., Paycom, Paylocity, etc ).
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
Excellent verbal and written communication abilities to interact effectively with employees, managers, and external partners.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
Strong knowledge of HCM and Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) for managing all aspects of employee data and HR processes.
Strong knowledge of employment laws including ACA, FMLA, ERISA, and unemployment regulations.
Ability to analyze HR metrics and data to inform decision-making and improve HR processes.
Sensitivity to cultural differences and the ability to promote diversity and inclusion within the workplace.
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization’s facilities.

Nice To Haves

PHR/SPHR certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

Process bi-weekly payroll accurately and on time.
Ensure proper calculation of wages, deductions, and taxes.
Maintain payroll records and resolve discrepancies.
Stay up to date on federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
Handle all requests for verification of employment and/or wages.
Support external auditors during payroll audits by providing necessary documentation and answering queries.
Administer wage garnishments, child support orders, and other court-mandated deductions in compliance with state and federal laws.
Within the HCM system, administer employee benefits including health, dental, vision, HSA, life insurance, and other voluntary benefit plan offerings.
Coordinate all aspects of annual open enrollment and assist employees with benefit elections, in partnership with Benefit Broker.
In partnership with Benefit Broker, assist employees with benefits-related inquiries and issues.
Work with Benefit Broker as needed to resolve claim and coverage concerns.
Reconcile carrier invoices with employee enrollment monthly and coordinate with Finance as needed for payment of invoices.
Ensure required COBRA notifications are sent to eligible employees.
Ensure benefit 5500 filings are completed annually.
Provide employees with education on benefit offerings.
Monitor and ensure compliance with ACA regulations.
Track employee benefit eligibility and coverage status, ensuring compliance.
Administer all employee Leaves of Absence and FMLA, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and company policies.
Send required notices and forms to employees, track leave status and hours balances, maintain communication with employees and managers throughout the leave process and return-to-work procedure, and update payroll and benefits accordingly.
Manage 401(k) plan enrollments, changes, and terminations.
Prepare bi-weekly remittance and submittal.
Coordinate with finance, plan providers and auditors to assist with annual filings and audits.
Provide employees with education on retirement plan options.
Act as point of contact for claim administrator for unemployment claim matters and assist with responding to state agency requests.
Dispute ineligible claims when necessary.
Coordinate with managers to gather documentation for claims.
Represent the company in unemployment hearings when necessary.
Submit WorkShare applications as needed on behalf of the organization and certify employees in WorkShare programs.
Maintain and update employee data in the HR Information System (HRIS).
Perform regular audits to ensure data accuracy and integrity.
Support implementation, upgrades, and training related to HR systems.
As a member of the HR Team, respond to employee and manager questions regarding HR policies, procedures, and programs, redirecting when needed.
Assist with audits and reporting related to HR compliance, benefits, and recordkeeping.
Final approve personnel changes such as promotions, transfers, and terminations.
Perform I9 verifications on new hires and complete the eVerify process, maintaining I9 binder.
Maintain and organize employee personnel files in compliance with legal and company standards. Maintain employee records and files in compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
Develop and assist with employee and manager training on topics within areas of responsibility.
Collect, review, and organize HR data for compliance filings with government agencies. Prepare employee data reports as needed for leadership or other departments.
Assist in updating, and communicating HR policies and procedures as requested.
Support onboarding and offboarding processes as needed.
Help contribute to employee education, communications and newsletters.
Assist with HR projects and initiatives as assigned, contributing to the continuous improvement of team goals and organizational objectives.
Other duties as assigned by manager.