Payroll / Benefits Specialist + Human Resources

Job ID#: 43406

Payroll / Benefits Specialist / Human Resources

Direct Hire; up to 85K + bonus; fully in office

Downtown Houston – paid parking

** Manage payroll (Paychex) and benefits administration while supporting broader HR initiatives and improving existing HR processes

** An opportunity to make the role your own, bring additional HR expertise to the organization, and play a meaningful role in strengthening the company's HR operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Payroll Processing:

Accurately calculate and process bi-weekly/monthly payroll, including overtime, commissions, bonuses, and all deductions (taxes, health insurance, retirement contributions)

Monitor timekeeping systems to ensure accurate hours worked

Update payroll records with new hires, terminations, salary changes, and other relevant employee information

Process wage garnishments, child support orders, and other court-ordered deductions

Prepare and distribute paystubs and tax forms

Ensure compliance with federal and state payroll regulations

Benefits Administration:

Manage employee benefits enrollment process, including health insurance, dental, vision, life, retirement plans, and flexible spending accounts

Plans and coordinates open enrollment, including employee communications, information sessions, and system updates

Process benefit deductions from payroll

Serve as primary point of contact for employee benefit questions and resolve issues with insurance providers

Manage self-funded health insurance

Manage Thrift 401K and Retirement plans

HR Functions:

Maintain accurate, confidential employee personnel files and records

Support new employee onboarding, including benefits orientation

Conduct employee status changes (job title updates, salary adjustments)

Manage employee leave requests (vacation, sick time, FMLA)

Collaborate with HR team on employee relations matters and HR projects as assigned

Compliance:

Stay updated on all applicable employment laws and regulations related to payroll and benefits and recommend process changes as regulations evolve

Conduct regular audits of payroll and benefits data to ensure accuracy

Prepare and file required government reports (e.g., W-2s, 941s, 1095s) accurately and timely

Support internal and external audits by providing documentation and reports as requested

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related highly preferred

Experience with payroll and HR management systems (e.g., ADP, Paychex); strong Microsoft Office Suite

Experience with a self-funded health plan preferred but not required

Ability to analyze payroll data for accuracy and identify discrepancies

Meticulous focus on ensuring accuracy in payroll calculations and employee data

Understanding of federal and state employment laws regarding payroll and benefits

Clear and professional communication skills and sound judgment with confidential information

Founded in 1998, Professional Alternatives is an award-winning recruiting and staffing agency that utilizes technology and relationships to deliver top talent. Connect with us today!