This Temp-to-Hire opportunity is open by the The Applied Companies who will be assisting our USA Parkway client with filling a role responsible for payroll processing, benefit plans support and administration of Leave of Absences (LOA's) for all internal employees. The Payroll & Benefits Specialist will ensure that all programs are in alignment with company policies, guidelines and compliance with federal, state regulations.

What the Payroll & Benefits Specialist will do:

• Ensure measures are in place for appropriate levels of security and eliminate the possibility of waste/fraud
• Process bi-weekly payroll, ensuring timecards and updates are accurate in Kronos; able to calculate retro pay and adjustments if applicable
• Provide payroll training and education for leadership team members and employees
• May assist with job evaluations, market pricing, salary band review and market surveys to provide recommendations on company salary structure to ensure internal and external equity
• Provide administration support for all employee benefit programs to include health insurance, disability insurance, life insurance, employee assistance program, retirement (401k), health and wellness and other plans.
• Ensure data is submitted for benefits for all new hires, open enrollment and life changing events
• Assist in the negotiation of benefit plan providers, vendors, auditors, and consultants for services, premiums and plan administration; conduct audits to ensure compliance as needed.
• Responds to employee inquiries and assist in resolving health benefit and retirement related question
• Provides end user systems testing for projects and ad hoc system enhancements
• Tracks employee attendance through Kronos and provides updates/reports
• Maintains/Oversees leave of absence policies, time off programs, FMLA and disability to ensure consistency and compliance with regulatory and legal requirements; review and track all ADA requests
• Provide employee support for all payroll, benefits and LOA's for all employees
• Manage the HRIS database including, but not limited to, creating and executing managerial reports and electronic personnel 
• Maintain and update employee handbook and user guides

What the Payroll & Benefits Specialist needs to have:

• A degree in Human Resources, or a related field or the equivalent combination of experience and education
• Minimum of 4 years' experience in payroll, compensation and benefits, including program administration, communication and compliance activity
• Strong knowledge with FMLA. ADA, EEOC and other employment law issues
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, ability to analyze data, understand trends and develop recommendations for action based on the analysis.
• Must have the ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.
• Must be detail oriented with a good work ethic and be able to maintain confidentiality in daily operation
•  Must have excellent communication, interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Must be able to use and acquire knowledge of a variety of computer software applications in word processing, spreadsheets, database and presentations
• Strong computer skills with various platforms
• Team player, dedicated to overall company performance and the ability to get along with others
• Self-motivated with enthusiasm and drive; able to work independently as needed
• Reliable attendance on-site required

Hours 10:30am-6:30pm, Monday - Friday