HR Generalist and Payroll Specialist

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Parental leave
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

About Us
At HighRidge Church, we're a nondenominational multi-site church passionate about our mission to "Strengthen People for Life." Our vision guides us to help people Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose, and Make a Difference. We're seeking a detail-oriented HR Generalist/Payroll Specialist to join our dedicated team and help support our growing staff. This role offers the unique opportunity to apply your professional expertise in a faith-based environment where your work directly contributes to our mission.
The Role
As our HR Generalist/Payroll Specialist, you'll be responsible for administering essential human resources functions with a primary focus on payroll processing, benefits administration, and employee onboarding/offboarding. This position will have minimal responsibility in directing staff initiatives within the office, focusing primarily on supporting HR functions rather than leading or managing office-wide staff programs. This remote position (DFW or Tyler area residents only) is ideal for a detail-oriented professional who strives for excellence in everything they do. You'll support our team of 55 full-time employees across multiple locations, working standard business hours (9-5 Monday-Friday).
What You'll Do
Payroll Management (50%)

• Process semi-monthly payroll for all staff categories (hourly, salary, and pastoral)
• Ensure compliance with federal and state wage laws, including specialized clergy and non-profit regulations
• Maintain accurate benefit deductions, PTO tracking, and housing allowances
• Administer FMLA and continuation of coverage requirements
• Conduct nondiscrimination testing for cafeteria plans
• Maintain accurate employee classifications (exempt, non-exempt, ministerial-exemption, contractors)
• Provide Time Clock training and support for staff members
• Monitor staff hour reports and coordinate with management on any issues
• Support finance director with payroll analysis and annual Worker's Compensation audit

Human Resources Administration (50%)

• Manage the full employee lifecycle including onboarding, transitions, and offboarding
• Administer employee benefits programs and annual communications
• Ensure compliance with all applicable employment laws (ACA, FLSA, EEOC, Title VII, ADEA, ADA, etc.)
• Maintain comprehensive employee personnel files and I-9 documentation
• Conduct background checks in compliance with DOL, EEOC, and FCRA requirements
• Provide HR/payroll education and training to staff
• Manage Workers' Compensation policy, claims, and annual audit processes
• Maintain current job descriptions and HR systems/workspaces
• Support the 90-day review process for new employees
• Assist with HR budget management across locations
• Process job postings across appropriate platforms
• Coordinate with leadership to determine optimal recruiting processes
• Keep management updated on employment laws affecting the interview process
• Conduct employment verifications and reference checks
• Extend written contingent job offers
• Maintain professional communication with all candidates

What You'll Bring

Required Qualifications

• 2-4 years of human resources/payroll experience (church experience preferred)
• Proficiency with HRIS systems, MS Excel, and Google Workspace
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Excellent time management skills and ability to meet deadlines
• Adaptability to handle changes, delays, and unexpected events
• Ability to work independently while exercising sound judgment
• Self-motivated with proven ability to maintain productivity in a remote environment
• Excellent self-discipline, communication skills, and proactive problem-solving abilities
• Demonstrated capacity to establish boundaries between work and personal life
• Reliable home office setup with consistent internet connection
• Strong data analysis capabilities
• Commitment to maintaining strict confidentiality
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Customer service mindset and strong interpersonal abilities
• Alignment with HighRidge Church's vision, mission, and values

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field
• SHRM Certification is a plus
• Previous experience in church or non-profit HR/payroll
• Experience with APS payroll system
• Familiarity with clergy-specific payroll regulations
• Experience with religious organization employment compliance

Why Join Our Team

• Remote work opportunity (candidates must be located in the DFW or Tyler area)
• Competitive compensation ($45,000-$60,000 depending on experience)
• Excellent benefits package including medical, dental, AD&D, life insurance, and retirement match
• Paid time off including two full weeks when offices close (July 4th week and Christmas week)
• Be part of a mission-driven organization making a difference in our community
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• Opportunity to apply your professional skills in service to others
• Professional development opportunities

Application Process

Qualified candidates must complete a Culture Index survey (approximately 15 minutes) and submit their resume with a brief cover letter explaining their interest in this position. All candidates must also pass a comprehensive background check. This position is available immediately with a flexible start date. We look forward to hearing from you!

As a religious organization, HighRidge Church is exempt from certain provisions of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 regarding employment discrimination. Therefore, we require applicants for this position to adhere to our faith-based standards. This includes hiring based on religion as it pertains to fulfilling our mission.

Flexible work from home options available.