The HR Benefits & Payroll Specialist is responsible for managing all aspects of payroll processing benefits administration and leave-of-absence management for all employees across Brandt Hospitality Group. This role ensures accuracy compliance and exceptional employee support by serving as a trusted resource for payroll benefits and leave-related matters. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented highly organized and skilled at balancing analytical tasks with strong customer service.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Payroll Administration
Complete full-cycle payroll processing for weekly and biweekly payrolls across multiple state locations ensuring accuracy and compliance within a fast-paced 24 / 7 hospitality environment.
- Review timekeeping data for completeness and accuracy with property support to validating hours worked overtime PTO shift differentials and special pay categories for employees operating in 24 / 7 environment.
- Support property managers and supervisors in maintaining accurate timekeeping practices troubleshooting system issues and ensuring adherence to established timekeeping and scheduling guidelines.
- Ensure full compliance with hospitality-related wage and hour regulations including tip credit rules service charge distribution laws multi-state tax requirements union agreements meal / rest break rules overtime calculations and split-shift premiums.
- Audit payroll data prior to submission identifying and resolving discrepancies related to hours worked wage calculations deductions garnishments and tax withholdings.
- Maintain accurate employee payroll records and ensure proper application of benefits-related deductions.
- Respond to payroll-related inquiries from employees and managers providing clear explanations and resolving issues regarding pay deductions adjustments and timekeeping.
- Manage year-end payroll processes including reviewing and validating W-2 and 1095-C forms coordinating corrections and ensuring all reporting deadlines are met
Benefits Administration
Administer all employee benefits programs including health dental vision disability life insurance retirement plans and wellness programs.
Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations including COBRA ACA state-mandated leave programs and other applicable laws.Maintain up-to-date employee benefits files and process benefits changes accurately and timely.Handle benefits billing reconcile discrepancies and coordinate directly with insurance carriers and vendors to ensure accuracy.Serve as the primary point of contact for benefits vendors and third-party administrators.Perform quality assurance checks on benefits-related data to ensure accuracy and integrity.Create and implement employee and manager communication to promote understanding of available benefits plan changes and enrollment processes.Coach and counsel managers HR team members and employees regarding benefit options program details claim issues and policy questions.Benefits Processes & Employee Support
Lead annual Open Enrollment planning communication and execution.
Manage qualifying life event (QLE) changes ensuring proper documentation and timely processing.Coordinate benefits onboarding for new hires and benefit terminations for exiting employees.Assist employees with claims issues provider inquiries and general benefits education.Leave of Absence (LOA) Management
Process and administer all leave-of-absence requests including medical personal disability-related state-required leaves and FMLA.
Interpret and apply FMLA and state leave laws to ensure accurate and compliant management of employee leaves accommodations and return-to-work procedures.Maintain accurate LOA documentation track leave timelines and communicate with employees managers and third-party administrators as needed.Assist in all other assigned job duties.QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelors degree in Human Resources Business Administration or related field preferred (or equivalent work experience).3 years of experience in payroll processing and benefits administration preferred; multi-state payroll experience strongly preferred.Strong knowledge of FMLA ACA COBRA and state leave regulations.Experience with HRIS / payroll systems; UKG experience is a plus.Exceptional attention to detail organizational skills and ability to maintain confidentiality.Strong communication and customer service skills with the ability to explain complex information clearly.Ability to manage multiple deadlines and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.BENEFITS
PTO with immediate accrualHotel Discounts WorldwideHealth InsuranceDental InsuranceVision InsuranceBasic Life / AD&D and Supplemental Life InsuranceVoluntary Options Critical Illness / Accident / Hospital Indemnity / Short Term Disability / Long-Term Disability / Legal401(k)Health Savings AccountEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)Dependent Care FSARequired Experience :
IC
Key Skills
Customer Service,Fmla,HIPAA,Microsoft Outlook,Benefits Administration,HRIS,Payroll,Employment & Labor Law,ADP,Human Resources,Phone Etiquette,Workday
Employment Type : Full-Time
Experience : years
Vacancy : 1