HR Payroll & Benefit Specialist

Job Summary:

The HR Specialist - Payroll & Benefits supports and enhances the Human Resources function with a strong focus on payroll administration, benefits management, and employee relations. This role requires proven payroll expertise, a solid benefits background, and the ability to manage sensitive information while partnering effectively with employees, leadership, and external vendors.

Core competencies, Knowledge, Skills & Education:

• Bachelor's degree in business, Human Resources, or related field preferred
• 4+ years of payroll experience required
• Professional HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP) preferred
• UKG experience preferred
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to communicate effectively, tactfully, and diplomatically with a wide variety of audiences
• Strong interpersonal skills with an emphasis on collaboration and teamwork
• Results-driven with high attention to detail and follow-up
• Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and under pressure
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information appropriately
• Ability to remain current with existing and new employment legislation

Major Accountabilities:

• Process accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll and required payroll reporting
• Calculate, audit, and input payroll data including wages, bonuses, taxes, garnishments, etc.
• Reconcile time and attendance records, including missed punches and paid personal leave
• Coordinate with payroll vendors to resolve payroll discrepancies
• Maintain HR systems and records to ensure accuracy, organization, and legal compliance
• Serve as liaison between corporate offices, insurance providers, and employees regarding benefit plans
• Administer benefit enrollments, changes, terminations, and open enrollment processes
• Coordinate 401(k) plan administration including reporting, meetings, loans, rollovers, and distributions
• Manage unemployment claims and represent the company at unemployment hearings
• Serve as case manager for employee leaves of absence, including FMLA, short‑ and long‑term disability
• Coordinate all leave activity with third‑party vendors
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with employees across all shifts
• Respond to internal and external HR inquiries in a timely and professional manner
• Prepare and deliver HR reports, metrics, and data as requested
• Document, track, and investigate employee relations concerns through timely closure

Working Conditions:

• In-person/office
• Approximately 95% office environment and 5% plant floor
• Support physical inventory process 1-2 Saturdays/year
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds as needed