Payroll and Benefits Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Payroll and Benefits Manager

Department: Human Resources

Accountability: This position reports to the Executive Director of Human Resources

The Payroll and Benefits Manager is responsible for overseeing payroll processing, benefits administration, leave program management, and HR operational support. The Payroll and Benefits Manager provides direct supervision and leadership to payroll and benefits staff. The role ensures accuracy, compliance, and timely execution across payroll and benefits functions, serves as a primary liaison for employees and vendors, and supports the organization with recordkeeping, reporting, and cross-departmental guidance.

Responsibilities

Payroll Management

• Ensure accurate biweekly payroll processing, data entry, verification, and timely correction of employee timecards.
• Audit, reconcile, and balance payroll data, resolving discrepancies.
• Maintain and update employee payroll information within ADP Workforce Now.
• Ensure compliance with payroll regulations including wage laws, deductions, garnishments, and reporting.
• Manage direct deposit enrollment and oversee paycheck/paystub distribution.
• Prepare payroll reports for leadership teams.
• Oversee timely payroll process for temporary agency staff.
• Maintain payroll tax set up and tax filings within ADP.
• Assist with internal and external payroll audits.

Benefits Administration

• Administer company benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life plans.
• Coordinate annual meetings with insurance brokers and recommend plan adjustments.
• Conduct benefit orientations and lead open enrollment processes.
• Liaise between employees and benefit vendors to resolve issues.
• Manage HRA, FSA, and HSA accounts in compliance with IRS guidelines.
• Oversee 401(k) plan processes including deferrals, matches, and loans.
• Support benefit-related compliance testing and audits.
• Ensure compliant administration of Leave & Time-Off Programs, including FMLA and state leave laws.
• Complete Unemployment Insurance Requests

Leadership & Team Management

• Provide day‑to‑day supervision, coaching, and support to payroll and benefits team members.
• Set clear performance expectations, conduct regular check‑ins, and complete annual performance evaluations.
• Foster a collaborative, service‑oriented team culture with an emphasis on accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Identify skill gaps and coordinate professional development, training, and cross‑training opportunities for staff.

Operational Oversight

• Assign, prioritize, and monitor daily workload to ensure timely execution of payroll cycles, benefits processing, and leave administration tasks.
• Review and approve staff work for accuracy, compliance, and adherence to internal controls.
• Establish and maintain standard operating procedures, ensuring consistency and efficiency across all payroll and benefits activities.
• Monitor service levels and implement process improvements to enhance productivity and employee experience.

Compliance & Quality Control

• Ensure staff adhere to all federal, state, and organizational policies related to payroll, benefits, and leave programs.
• Oversee internal audits, reconciliations, and documentation maintained by team members.
• Provide guidance and corrective action when errors or compliance issues arise, ensuring timely resolution and prevention of repeat errors.

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Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in HR, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in HR, Payroll, and Benefits Administration.
• Experience administering self-insured health plans.
• Ability to flex work schedule to adhere to multi-shift needs
• SPHR, PHR, CPP, or CBP certifications preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Advanced proficiency using ADP Workforce Now.
• Experience with payroll systems, benefits platforms, and carrier portals.
• Knowledge of federal and state employment laws.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in handling numerical data.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Strong collaboration and problem-solving abilities.