Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Pieper Veterinary•Middletown, CT

About The Position

The HR Generalist / Payroll & Benefits Specialist plays a critical role in supporting day-to-day payroll, benefits, and compliance operations across COVE Animal Health. This position provides essential backup and operational support to the Payroll Manager and HR Director, ensuring business continuity, regulatory compliance, and a positive employee experience. This role is ideal for an experienced HR professional who enjoys operational ownership, thrives in detail-oriented work, and values strong cross-functional collaboration while contributing to a growing, multi-state organization.

Requirements

Experience supporting payroll and benefits in a multi-state environment
Working knowledge of payroll compliance, wage and hour regulations, and benefits administration
Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Comfortable collaborating across HR, Finance, and external vendors

Nice To Haves

HRIS and payroll system experience preferred

Responsibilities

Run regular payroll cycles and expense payrolls as needed
Maintain familiarity with payroll compliance, tax filings, and multi-state requirements
Administer third-party sick pay and state-mandated FMLA payroll processes
Serve as primary backup for the Payroll Manager during absences
Perform timecard audits to ensure FLSA and wage and hour compliance
Conduct ACA audits and support accurate reporting
Support internal controls related to payroll and HRIS data integrity
Manage benefits billing reconciliation and vendor escalations
Process employee status changes, including new hires, terminations, and leaves of absence
Maintain benefits administration systems and support open enrollment activities
Ensure accuracy of employee data across HRIS, payroll, and benefits platforms
Assist with payroll-related reporting for Finance and HR leadership
Partner with the HR Director on process improvement initiatives and system upgrades