Payroll and Benefits Specialist

Tierra Encantada is the leader in Spanish immersion early education® and provides education and care to children 6 weeks through 6 years of age. Our award-winning concept has received numerous accolades, including Top 50 Franchise Companies Doing the Most to Champion Diversity by Entrepreneur Magazine, 10 Hottest Franchise Businesses in America by Inc Magazine, and The Americas’ Fastest Growing Companies.

The Payroll & Benefits Specialist is responsible for managing the payroll process and administering employee benefits programs. This role ensures that employees are paid accurately and on time, and that they receive the benefits they are entitled to. The specialist works closely with the HR department and accounting team to maintain compliance with company policies and relevant regulations. Reporting to the HR Director, this position is best suited for someone that excels in a fast-paced, results-oriented, start-up environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Payroll Processing

• Process and manage payroll for over 300 employees, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Collect and verify timekeeping information for all employees.
• Calculate employee wages, deductions, bonuses, and commissions.
• Prepare and distribute paychecks or arrange for direct deposits.
• Handle payroll discrepancies and resolve issues promptly.

Benefits Administration

• Administer employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other voluntary benefits.
• Assist employees with benefits enrollment and changes.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations regarding benefits and payroll.
• Coordinate with benefits providers and resolve any issues that arise.

Compliance and Record-Keeping

• Maintain accurate payroll records and employee files.
• Support preparing payroll tax filings, audits and other related reports.
• Stay updated on changes in payroll laws and regulations in multi-states.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure data integrity and compliance.

Employee Support

• Serve as a point of contact for employee inquiries regarding payroll and benefits.
• Educate employees about their paychecks, deductions, and benefits.
• Provide assistance during open enrollment periods and other benefits-related events.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred.
• Proven experience in payroll processing and benefits administration.
• Strong understanding of payroll and benefits laws and regulations.
• Proficiency in payroll software and HRIS systems.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary depends on qualifications, education, and experience. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid parental leave, 12 paid holidays, 15 days paid time off, 401(k) with employer match, profit sharing plan (cash vesting retirement contribution), discounted childcare and waitlist priority for enrollment, company paid professional development, work from home Wednesdays, corporate office amenities (gym, wellness/nursing room, onsite company cafe with coffee, espresso bar, beverages, and snacks available to employees at no cost, onsite free parking), casual work environment, and employee-focused events (family picnic, happy hours, team outings, quarterly lunch & learns, employee holiday party). Once a job offer has been accepted, the candidate must pass a credit and background check. E-Verify is used to verify work authorization status.