Payroll / Benefits Specialist + Human Resources

Professional Alternatives; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 77,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

Professional Alternatives is seeking a Payroll / Benefits Specialist to join our Human Resources team in Downtown Houston with paid parking. This direct-hire role offers up to 85K plus a bonus and is fully in-office.

You will manage payroll (Paychex) and benefits administration while supporting broader HR initiatives and improving HR processes. This is an opportunity to bring HR expertise to strengthen the company's HR operations and make the role your own.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in HR, business, or related field preferred.
• Experience with payroll/HR systems (ADP, Paychex) and MS Office.
• Ability to ensure payroll accuracy and confidentiality.
• Knowledge of federal and state payroll laws.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly/monthly payroll with accurate deductions.
• Manage benefits enrollment and open enrollment activities.
• Support onboarding, employee records, and HR projects.
• Stay compliant with payroll and benefits regulations and audits.

Skills

Payroll systems experience

HR management systems

Microsoft Office proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR/Business Administration

Tools

ADP

Paychex

Job description

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