Payroll & Benefits Analyst

The Phoenix Zoo is the only zoo in the Valley accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is a non‑profit zoological park, serving nearly 1.4 million guests annually. Home to more than 3,000 animals, many of which are endangered or threatened species, the Zoo is also committed to supporting wildlife and habitat conservation in the region and across the globe.

Department: Human Resources

Supervisor: HR Manager – HRIS, Benefits and Payroll

FLSA Status: Full Time, Regular, Exempt

Application Submission Deadline: 02/06/2026

General Statement:

The Payroll & Benefits Analyst will serve as the organization’s subject matter expert for the HRIS system (UKG), all payroll functions, benefit administration and enrollment, leave of absence tracking/reporting and HR billing/reconciliation. This position ensures the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of all payroll and benefits data in alignment with company policies and applicable federal, state, and local regulations. The position also plays a key role in delivering high‑quality HRIS data analysis and reporting, with a strong focus on payroll, benefits, and related financial and compliance reporting, while continuously identifying opportunities to improve processes, controls, and system efficiencies.

Provide quality guest service to both internal and external guests by maintaining a WILD (friendly, helpful, positive and professional) working attitude and appearance.

Responsible for overseeing all timekeeping and payroll processes including reviewing/processing of time sheets, ensuring accurate and timely processing of all payrolls (bi‑weekly, bonus, supplemental, manual payroll checks, etc.) and maintaining payroll records.

Responsible for all benefit transactions within the HRIS system (UKG) including reviewing and responding to all benefit enrollments (new hires, re‑hires, status changes, qualifying events and open enrollment), creating and maintaining benefits plans, profiles and deductions, auditing and reconciling benefits enrollments and updating plan details, premiums and limits.

Assist HR Manager with changes, updates and maintenance of retirement plans, limits and deductions within the HRIS system (UKG).

Perform regular analysis of payroll and benefits data to identify trends, discrepancies and areas to improve the overall functions/controls and system efficiencies.

Prepare timekeeping, payroll and benefit reports for management with detailed analysis, findings, and recommendations.

Assist in the preparation of the payroll budget.

Prepare reports and documentation for HR, 401k and financial audits.

Ensure the organization remains compliant with local, state and federal laws and regulations relating to payroll, benefits and documentation/reporting.

Act as the point of contact for all payroll and benefits inquiries and provide training and education materials related to payroll and benefits.

Responsible for the tracking, payment and reconciliation of vendor bills for the human resources department.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, accounting or finance preferred.

Three or more years of experience in payroll and benefits administration.

Proficiency and proven experience in HRIS systems and payroll processing software (UKG Preferred).

Strong knowledge of payroll and benefit industry standards and best practices.

Knowledge of ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, COBRA, FMLA, wage and hour laws, other applicable employment laws, and payroll and benefits tax regulations.

Familiarity with Traditional and Roth 401(k) plans and their associated regulations.

High attention to detail and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, multitask on several assignments, while remaining highly organized and meeting deadlines.

Ability to maintain the security and confidentiality of records, files and verbal information.

Excellent written and verbal communications skills with consistent follow‑through.

Demonstrated ability to be a team player and work effectively across all departments and provide excellent service in all situations.

Ability to pass pre‑employment background check and drug…