Tradewind Services (OluKai, Melin Roark) Sr Payroll and Benefits Manager

OluKai-Kaenon-melin-Roark•Irvine, CA

51d•$110,000 - $140,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Tradewind Services Payroll and Benefits Manager is responsible for overseeing payroll processing, benefits programs and administration, and compliance with all applicable federal, state and local regulations to ensure employees are paid accurately and receive the appropriate benefits. This role works closely with HR, Payroll, Finance, and external vendors to manage payroll operations, optimize benefits programs, and maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, human resources, business administration, or a related field preferred or equivalent experience.
Minimum 7 years of experience in payroll and benefits administration.
Strong knowledge of payroll and benefits multi state laws, including FLSA, ACA, COBRA, ERISA, and IRS regulations.
Experience with payroll and HRIS systems (e.g., ADP, Paychex, BambooHR, Full Circle).
Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to manage confidential information.
Professional Certifications such as: Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)
Strong organizational and time management abilities to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Maintain accurate payroll records for new hires, terminations, salary adjustments, 401k contribution changes, leave of and bonuses in HR and Payroll systems.
Manage payroll schedules, tax filings, deductions, and direct deposits.
Partner with Finance to reconcile payroll transactions and support budget planning.
Oversee end-to-end payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Serve as secondary backup for processing bi-weekly payroll submission in the event the payroll manager is unavailable, ensuring the accuracy in payroll operations.
Ensure compliance with wage and hour laws, including FLSA, overtime calculations, and payroll tax reporting.
Manager 401K audit and internal control/annual audit, prepare 401K and payroll-related documentation for audits and assist auditors in resolving discrepancies.
Manage company benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, FSA, life insurance, disability, and wellness initiatives.
Partner with Human Resources for benefits enrollment, renewals, and changes, ensuring employees understand their options.
Communicate with employees and management about benefits options and usage.
Ability to audit monthly payments and resolve enrollment issues.
Work with benefits providers and brokers to evaluate and improve plan offerings.
Ensure compliance with ACA, COBRA, ERISA, and other benefits-related regulations.
Address employee inquiries related to benefits and payroll, providing guidance on plan options, deductions, and eligibility.
Collaborate with external vendors to negotiate benefits contracts and evaluate cost-effectiveness.
Lead annual benefits open enrollment campaigns and wellness initiatives
Ensure payroll and benefits programs adhere to all applicable laws and regulations.
Register to new states for new hires, if applicable.
Prepare and submit payroll tax filings, W-2s, 1095-Cs, and other required government reports.
Conduct internal audits of payroll and benefits data to maintain accuracy and compliance.
Stay informed of changes in labor laws, tax codes, and benefits regulations to implement necessary adjustments.
Adhoc and Payroll Analytics reporting compliance reports, including, but not limited to ACA, BLS, EEO, PCORI, EEO-1, CA Pay Reports, etc.
Contractor Compliance & 1099 Management: Ensure accurate and timely processing of 1099 forms, reviewing vendor and contractor payments for compliance with IRS regulations and company standards.
Optimize payroll and benefits processes to enhance efficiency and reduce errors.
Maintain and improve payroll and benefits systems, collaborating with HRIS and IT teams.
Automate reporting and workflows to streamline payroll and benefits administration.
Implement best practices for payroll and benefits management.
Oversee new system implementation, upgrades, testing, and integration of new technologies to improve operational efficiency.
Acquisition Support: Play a key role in integrating payroll processes during acquisitions or mergers, ensuring a seamless transition for all employees.
Concur Expense Report Oversight: Manage and review Concur expense reports, ensuring proper documentation, adherence to policies, and timely reimbursement. Provide guidance to employees on expense-related inquiries.
Retail Operations Support: Coordinate accounting-related needs for retail locations, including Loomis cash-handling setup, business license requirements, and ongoing compliance to support smooth store operations.
Serve as the primary point of contact for employee payroll and benefits inquiries.
Provide clear communication and training on payroll procedures and benefits options.

Benefits

Complimentary chef prepared breakfast and lunch provided Monday - Thursday
Generous product gift program and all brand discounts
Growth opportunities within the Archipelago family of brands: OluKai, Kaenon, Melin, Roark
Company bonus program
5 year and 10 year Anniversary gifts to Hawaii and other desirable destinations
Medical, Dental, Vision insurance in accordance with plan guidelines
Company paid life insurance
401k with employer match in accordance with plan guidelines
15 Days of PTO plus one additional day of PTO every year on your anniversary and 3 Floating Holidays per year
Paid beach and giveback days, bi annual team building events and other in person celebrations
Work with talented and great people who share a love of the ocean lifestyle
OluKai is a Certified B Corporation with paid company service days