Payroll and Benefits Manager

Job Summary

The Payroll & Benefits Manager is responsible for overseeing accurate, timely payroll processing and the administration of employee benefit programs. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while delivering a positive employee experience related to pay and benefits. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, and experienced in managing payroll operations alongside benefits administration.

Payroll Management

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing for hourly and salaried employees across multiple states (if applicable)

• Ensure payroll is processed accurately and on time, including bonuses, commissions, and adjustments

• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and tax regulations

• Reconcile payroll reports and resolve discrepancies

• Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll-related questions and issues

• Coordinate payroll audits and support year-end processes (W-2s, 1099s)

Benefits Administration

• Administer employee benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and retirement plans

• Manage open enrollment and employee benefit communications

• Act as the liaison between employees and benefit vendors/providers

• Ensure benefit deductions are accurate and reflected correctly in payroll

• Monitor benefits compliance (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, FMLA where applicable)

• Analyze benefit offerings and recommend improvements based on cost and employee needs

Systems & Process Improvement

• Maintain and optimize payroll and HRIS systems

• Partner with HR and Finance to improve payroll and benefits processes

• Develop and maintain payroll and benefits policies and procedures

• Ensure data integrity and confidentiality across systems

Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead, train, and mentor payroll staff (if applicable)

• Collaborate closely with HR, Finance, and leadership teams

• Support employee education on payroll and benefits topics

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field preferred

• 5+ years of payroll experience, including benefits administration

• Experience managing payroll for multi-state organizations preferred

• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and benefits compliance

• Proficiency with payroll systems (ADP, Paychex, UKG, Workday, SAP, or similar)

• Advanced Excel and reporting skills

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment