The Payroll & Benefits Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely administration of payroll processing, benefits coordination, and related HR support functions. This position plays a key role in ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and serves as a primary point of contact for employee payroll and benefits inquiries. The Specialist works closely with the Employee Relations Manager, Finance team, and external vendors to support seamless operations and excellent employee service.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Administration

• Prepare and process biweekly payroll for all staff using the organization’s HRIS system (e.g., Rippling)

• Audit timesheets and leave balances for accuracy and policy compliance

• Ensure payroll entries reflect correct coding for grant, program, and funder allocations

• Coordinate with the Finance team on payroll journal entries and GL reporting

• Maintain up-to-date payroll records and documentation for auditing and compliance

Benefits Administration

• Coordinate open enrollment, mid-year changes, and termination of benefits

• Serve as liaison with benefits vendors for health, dental, vision, life, and voluntary plans

• Track eligibility dates, waiting periods, and employee contribution schedules

• Respond to employee inquiries regarding plan options, coverage, and claims support

• Reconcile benefits invoices and coordinate resolution of discrepancies

Compliance & Reporting

• Maintain knowledge of applicable labor laws, wage and hour regulations, and benefits compliance (ACA, COBRA, FMLA, etc.)

• Prepare reports and support audits related to payroll and benefits

• Ensure accurate recordkeeping and confidentiality of employee files

HR Support

• Assist with onboarding processes related to payroll setup and benefits enrollment

• Maintain employee status changes and ensure timely updates in HRIS

• Support development of SOPs and internal workflows for payroll and benefits functions

• Must be willing to pursue Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification within 18–24 months of hire; financial and study support provided by the agency

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field preferred

• 2–4 years of experience in payroll and benefits administration required

• Working knowledge of employment laws and payroll regulations

• Experience using HRIS/payroll systems (Rippling preferred)

• High attention to detail, discretion, and confidentiality

• Strong organizational and time-management skills

• Excellent communication and customer service abilities

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

• Occasional lifting of materials up to 15 pounds

• Employer contribution toward medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee

• Optional voluntary benefits through Aflac and Colonial Life, including employer-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Life and AD&D insurance

• 401(k) with employer match

• Generous paid time off and holidays

• Professional development support, including CPP certification within 18–24 months

Clinton Hill Community & Early Childhood Center

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Payroll & Benefits Specialist