Lead Payroll and Benefits Consultant

Position: Lead Payroll and Benefits Consultant

Headquarters: Houston, TX

Our Company:

Kuraray America, Inc. (KAI), recognized as one of the most outstanding workplaces nationwide, excels globally in the realm of specialty chemicals, fibers, and resins. With premier research and production bases and an extensive international supply chain, Kuraray is at the forefront in developing exceptional dental, fiber, resin, and elastomer products. As an integral part of the Kuraray Company, Ltd. family, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, we operate in 31 countries, employing more than 11,000 worldwide, including over 800 dedicated professionals in the U.S.

The Kuraray Advantage:

At Kuraray, we are shaping a brighter future today, empowered by our passionate professionals committed to our core values—integrity, excellence, teamwork, and accountability. As members of our team, employees not only work for a leading name in specialty chemicals, but they also thrive in a global innovator-driven atmosphere. We prize the individuality of our workforce, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility early on. Our comprehensive benefits package speaks volumes about our commitment to you, offering competitive salaries, incentives, and a highly conducive work environment.

Role Overview:

The Lead Payroll and Benefits Consultant holds a pivotal position, ensuring payrolls are processed with precision and punctuality while expertly managing benefits-related integrations. This role demands a specialized knowledge of intricate labor laws, exceptional relationship cultivation skills, and a keen problem-solving acumen. We seek a detail-oriented, accuracy-driven professional who is proactive in ensuring compliance and resolving payroll concerns.

Key Responsibilities:

• Execute and manage multi-state payroll for both exempt and non-exempt staff, ensuring precision and timeliness.
• Reconcile payroll details to align with internal records, swiftly addressing disparities.
• Collaborate with HR and Finance to facilitate compliance with tax withholdings, benefits deductions, and garnishments under local, state, and federal laws.
• Examine and reconcile payroll reports, including annual filings (e.g., W-2, 1099).
• Coordinate with finance teams to secure accurate payroll accounting and documentation.
• Oversee payroll systems, ensuring their operational alignment with the company’s needs.
• Integrate benefits-related transactions seamlessly into payroll processes.
• Stay informed on labor law changes to proactively update payroll practices.
• Foster significant relationships with internal partners and external vendors.
• Drive improvements in payroll processes to boost efficiency and minimize errors.
• Conduct routine audits to ensure payroll data accuracy.

Qualifications Required:

• Preferably, a Bachelor's degree in a related field like Accounting, Finance, or HR.
• Extensive experience (7-10 years) in payroll, with a multi-state scope and benefits integration focus.
• Expertise in federal, state, and local labor laws.
• Proficiency in payroll software systems and Microsoft Excel.
• Termed interpersonal skills and an ability to forge collaborative relationships.
• Professional credentials, such as CPP or CEBS, are desirable.

Compensation includes competitive pay and benefits, empowering you to achieve your career aspirations.
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S.

Learn more at kuraray.us.com/careers/

Kuraray America, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer AA M/F/disability/protected veteran status.