Head of Benefits & Payroll Strategy

Water Environment Federation; Alexandria (VA); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

The Water Environment Federation (WEF) seeks a strategic Manager, Benefits & Payroll to lead the benefits and payroll programs, ensure compliance, and drive continuous process improvement. This role partners with HR, Finance, and senior leadership to deliver competitive, equitable programs that align with WEF's strategic objectives.

Hybrid work is required (office in Alexandria, VA 2 days every other week) with travel up to 20% for meetings and events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business, Finance, or related field required.
• 5+ years of experience in benefits and payroll leadership.
• Certifications CEBS/CPP/SHRM-SCP/SPHR/PHR preferred.
• Proficiency with HRIS Paylocity and advanced Excel; Power BI is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead Total Rewards, payroll, and benefits strategy aligned with organizational goals.
• Oversee payroll operations, compliance, reporting, and controls.
• Manage relationships with brokers, carriers, retirement plan admins, and vendors.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations; drive process improvements.
• Collaborate with senior leadership, HR, Finance, and external consultants.

Skills

Analytical skills

Project management

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR / business / finance

Certifications preferred (CEBS, CPP, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, PHR)

Tools

Paylocity

Microsoft Excel

Power BI

Job description

The Water Environment Federation (WEF) seeks a strategic Manager, Benefits & Payroll to lead the benefits and payroll programs, ensure compliance, and drive continuous process improvement. This role partners with HR, Finance, and senior leadership to deliver competitive, equitable programs that align with WEF's strategic objectives.

Hybrid work is required (office in Alexandria, VA 2 days every other week) with travel up to 20% for meetings and events.