Payroll Benefits Specialist

Position Summary: The Payroll & Benefits Specialist is responsible for the accurate and efficient administration of payroll, benefits, and leave management for The Lake House and affiliated entities. This role requires a detail-oriented professional with expertise in payroll processing, benefits administration, and compliance management. The ideal candidate will have experience managing a dynamic workforce, including seasonal employees and H-2B visa workers, while ensuring compliance with wage laws and company policies.

Essential Functions:

• Process and administer weekly payroll for 170-300 employees across multiple entities.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage laws, including proper employee classification.
• Manage payroll deductions, tax withholdings, and garnishments.
• Oversee payroll audits and reconciliations to prevent discrepancies.
• Process wage adjustments, bonuses, and terminations in a timely manner.
• Serve as the HRIS (ADP) expert, maintaining accurate records and optimizing system workflows.
• Develop payroll and benefits reports, identifying trends and ensuring accuracy.
• Administer employee benefits programs, including enrollments, terminations, and changes.
• Coordinate open enrollment and ongoing benefits education initiatives.
• Work closely with benefits brokers to manage renewals, audits, and compliance requirements.
• Track and administer FMLA, disability, PTO, and other leave programs, ensuring compliance.
• Oversee payroll setup and compliance for seasonal and H-2B visa employees.
• Maintain compliance with wage and hour laws, tax regulations, and benefits-related policies.
• Prepare and file required reports for payroll taxes, benefits audits, and regulatory compliance.
• Stay informed on legislative updates affecting payroll and benefits administration.

Job Requirements:

• 2-3 years of dedicated payroll and benefits experience is required.
• Experience with ADP or similar HRIS/payroll systems strongly preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of payroll processing, benefits administration, and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with seasonal workforce dynamics and H-2B visa regulations is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate with HR, Finance, and external partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and payroll-related reporting tools.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with professionalism.