Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Job Summary

The Payroll & Benefits Specialist is responsible for processing employee payroll under the supervision of the HR Director, providing information to new and current employees, providers, and administrators, coordinating employee benefits, and resolving benefit, retirement, reporting, and reconciliation issues.

Key Responsibilities

The following duties are representative of the essential functions of this position. Additional duties may be assigned as operational needs require.

Payroll Processing

• Prepare and oversee the weekly payroll process, including reviewing all data in the timekeeping software and coordinating with managers to resolve discrepancies
• Review payroll for accuracy prior to processing
• Record payroll changes such as pay rate updates, status changes, exemptions, insurance coverage, and other benefits and deductions to maintain accurate master payroll records
• Prepare periodic reports of earnings, hours worked, and overtime
• Prepare, file, and ensure timely payment of 403(b) reports after each pay period
• Prepare and file the Annual Unclaimed Property report to the State of Texas; confirm and issue tax forms on a timely basis

Benefits Administration

• Administer employee benefit programs in compliance with carrier contracts, including enrolling new employees, explaining benefit options, mediating eligibility and payment issues, and facilitating open enrollment
• Distribute benefit-related documents including open enrollment packets, new/change forms, COBRA, FMLA, and retirement forms
• Maintain a wide variety of benefit records including provider contracts, claim files, and employee records to ensure an up-to-date reference and audit trail
• Reconcile enrollment forms and billings to employee records for COBRA, disability, retirement, health, and FMLA to ensure accurate eligibility and payment information

Compliance & Documentation

• Process documentation for requests from outside agencies and parties, including court-ordered adjustments, employment verifications, and subpoenas of payroll records
• Resolve discrepancies in payroll information and documentation with benefit providers and internal stakeholders to ensure accuracy of records and employee payments

Supervisory Duties

None