Payroll & Benefits Specialist

$82,000 - $92,292/Yr

East Harlem Scholars Academy - New York, NY

Full-time - Mid Level

New York, NY

About the position

The Payroll and Benefits Specialist is a newly created role within the HR team at East Harlem Tutorial Program (EHTP). This position is crucial for managing payroll, benefits, onboarding, and offboarding processes, ensuring that staff members are supported and valued. The role aims to enhance HR operations and contribute to the organization's mission of empowering students and the community.

Responsibilities

• Manage and execute the full payroll cycle, including calculating wages, deductions, bonuses, and overtime.
• Ensure payroll is processed accurately and timely for all employees, in compliance with company policies and applicable laws.
• Handle payroll discrepancies and resolve employee inquiries related to pay.
• Prepare and maintain payroll reports and records, ensuring all data is up-to-date and accurate.
• Administer employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, disability insurance, and other voluntary benefits.
• Assist employees with benefits enrollment, changes, and questions, providing excellent customer service.
• Coordinate with benefits providers to ensure accurate and timely processing of benefits-related transactions.
• Stay updated on benefits regulations and compliance requirements, ensuring the company's benefits programs meet all legal standards.
• Ensure payroll and benefits practices comply with federal, state, and local laws, including tax regulations and labor laws.
• Prepare and submit required payroll and benefits reports to government agencies as necessary.
• Stay informed about payroll and benefits legislation changes and recommend adjustments to company policies as needed.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding payroll and benefits inquiries, providing clear and timely communication.
• Educate employees on compensation and benefits, including conducting informational sessions and providing resources.
• Collaborate with HR and management to ensure seamless onboarding and offboarding processes, particularly in relation to payroll and benefits.
• Identify opportunities to enhance payroll and benefits processes for efficiency and accuracy.
• Participate in HR projects and initiatives related to compensation, benefits, and employee wellness programs.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Paylocity) and HRIS.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail in handling payroll and benefits data.
• Exceptional mathematical and calculation skills.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Proven experience in payroll processing and benefits administration.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism.
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field.
• 5-8 years of experience in payroll processing and benefits administration.
• Proficient with payroll software (e.g., ADP, Paycom, Paylocity) and HRIS systems.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll and benefits regulations.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to explain complex information clearly and concisely.

Nice-to-haves

• Certified in Payroll (CPP) or Benefits (CEBS) (preferred but not required)

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $82,000-$92,292.
• Robust benefits package designed to support staff in professional and personal lives.