Payroll Benefits Specialist

NorthRock Partners; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 66,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company-funded ESOP

Strong retirement plans

Tuition reimbursement

Comprehensive healthcare/dental/vision coverage

Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)

Job summary

A financial advisory firm in Minneapolis is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to join their People Team. The role involves processing payroll accurately and timely, maintaining payroll records, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supporting benefits administration. Ideal candidates have a degree in HR or Business, a minimum of 2 years' payroll processing experience, and strong analytical skills. This position offers a base salary range of $66,000 to $90,000, alongside comprehensive benefits including health coverage and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of payroll processing experience, preferably in a multi-state environment.
• Strong knowledge of wage and hour laws and payroll reporting.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Process semi-monthly payroll including wages, bonuses, and deductions.
• Review and validate payroll data for accuracy.
• Audit payroll records including hours worked and PTO usage.
• Reconcile payroll data with Finance and resolve discrepancies.
• Support year-end payroll activities including W-2 preparation.
• Ensure compliance with wage and hour regulations.

Skills

Detail-Oriented

Analytical

Service-Driven

Problem-Solving

Excellent Communication

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting or related field

Tools

UKG Ready

Microsoft Excel

Job description

• Detail-Oriented: You ensure accuracy across payroll, data entry, and reporting with a high level of precision
• Analytical: You can identify discrepancies, interpret data, and solve problems efficiently
• Service-Driven: You provide responsive, professional support and create a positive employee experience

The Role

We’re looking for a detail-oriented professional to join our People Team. In this role, you’ll own the accurate and timely processing of payroll while supporting benefits administration and HRIS reporting. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and is known for accuracy and strong customer service.

What You’ll Do

• Process semi-monthly payroll, including wages, bonuses, deductions, and direct deposits
• Review and validate payroll data such as new hires, terminations, and compensation changes
• Audit payroll records for accuracy, including hours worked and PTO usage
• Reconcile payroll data in partnership with Finance and resolve discrepancies
• Support year-end payroll activities, including W-2 preparation and reporting
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour regulations
• Administer employee benefits transactions including enrollments, life events, and terminations
• Respond to employee inquiries related to payroll and benefits, escalating when appropriate
• Support open enrollment and benefits reconciliation processes
• Maintain accurate employee data within UKG Ready and ensure data integrity across systems
• Generate and analyze payroll and workforce reports, including headcount reporting
• Identify and resolve discrepancies across HRIS, payroll, and benefits systems
• Monitor and manage the People Team inbox, triaging and responding to employee inquiries

What You Bring

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum of 2 years of payroll processing experience, preferably in a multi-state environment
• Experience with HRIS systems; UKG Ready strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of wage and hour laws and payroll reporting
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Excellent communication skills with a service-oriented mindset
• Must be authorized to work in the United States
• Successful completion of a credit and criminal background check is required

The estimated base salary range for this role is $66,000 – $90,000 per year. Base salaries are determined based on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographical work location. Many roles are also eligible for variable pay such as bonuses, commissions, and/or long-term incentives.

Benefits Include a company-funded ESOP, strong retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, comprehensive healthcare/dental/vision coverage, and generous Paid Time Off (PTO).

About NorthRock Partners

At NorthRock Partners, we help people reach their potential through impactful advice. Our Personal Office® model integrates financial and lifestyle guidance tailored to each client’s unique goals.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing reasonable accommodation during the application process. Contact [e-mail] for assistance.