Manager, Payroll and Benefits (Hybrid)

FAS; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

FAS in Washington, DC is seeking a Manager for Payroll and Benefits to oversee employee benefits administration and payroll processing. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in a related field and at least 5 years of payroll experience. Responsibilities include managing payroll records, ensuring compliance with laws, and supporting HR operations. The role is hybrid, requiring in-person work two to three days a week. A salary range of $70,000–$82,000 is offered along with opportunities for a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• Must reside in the DC, Maryland, Virginia area.
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective working relationships.

Responsibilities

• Administer and support employee benefits programs.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for employee questions related to payroll.
• Process semi-monthly payroll, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain payroll records, including deductions and tax withholdings.
• Manage relationships with payroll and benefits vendors.

Skills

Bachelor's degree or higher in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, Finance or related field.

5+ years of experience in benefits and payroll administration.

Strong understanding of employee benefits programs and payroll processes.

Intermediate to advanced Excel skills.

Previous experience with HRIS software.

Strong attention to detail.

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.

Strong organizational, analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Manager, Payroll and Benefits

Full‑time FAS staff

Washington, DC

The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to using science and technology to benefit humanity. Based in Washington, DC, we are an entrepreneurial, mission‑driven group focused on impact and growth.

MUST RESIDE IN THE DC, Maryland, Virginia AREA.

Skills and Expertise: Must Haves

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, Finance or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in benefits and payroll administration.
• Strong understanding of employee benefits programs and payroll processes.
• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills.
• Previous experience with HRIS software is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective working relationships at all levels across the organization.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage sensitive and confidential information.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Strong organizational, analytical and problem‑solving abilities.

Highly Preferred

• Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) or similar certification.
• Experience working in a non‑profit organization.

What You’ll Do: Core Responsibilities

• Administer and support employee benefits programs (health, retirement, leave, and related plans), including open enrollment and life‑event changes.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for employee questions related to payroll and benefits, ensuring a high‑quality employee experience.
• Own and process semi‑monthly payroll, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Maintain payroll records, including deductions, tax withholdings, and adjustments (e.g., retro pay, off‑cycle payments).
• Reconcile payroll and benefits accounts, including invoices, deductions, and vendor reporting; partner with Finance on audits and reporting.
• Manage relationships with payroll and benefits vendors to ensure accurate processing, issue resolution, and timely tax filings. Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations (FLSA, IRS, ACA, ERISA, COBRA, etc.).
• Contribute to process improvements and support broader HR operations and employee lifecycle activities as needed.

HR Generalist Support

• Support onboarding and offboarding processes related to payroll, benefits, and HR systems.
• Assist with HRIS data management and ensure data accuracy across systems.
• Provide general HR support across the employee lifecycle, including responding to employee inquiries and supporting People & Culture initiatives.
• Contribute to process improvements and documentation to enhance efficiency and employee experience.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to support organizational needs and special projects.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure all payroll and benefits programs comply with applicable laws (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, etc.).
• Maintain accurate payroll and benefits records, including tax withholdings and deductions.
• Support audits and reporting requirements in partnership with Finance and external partners.
• Prepare and file required reports such as ACA filings, 403(b) or 401(k) contributions, and benefits audits.
• Assist in maintaining and updating payroll and benefits‑related policies and procedures.

Work Environment

This hybrid role will be based in Washington, DC. In‑person work is generally required two to three days per week, with remote work accommodated for the remaining days.

Salary Range

$70,000–$82,000

Hiring Statement

Don’t check off every box? Apply anyway! FAS is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Qualification requirements are minimum expectations; applicants who meet a subset of the qualifications are encouraged to apply.

The Federation of American Scientists is an Equal‑Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. FAS prohibits discrimination against employees and job applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose compensation.