Overview

The Human Resources Generalist focusing on Payroll and Benefits will be a critical member of our HR team, primarily responsible for the accurate and timely payroll processing and the comprehensive administration of all employee benefits programs. This role ensures compliance with federal, New York State, and New York City payroll and benefits regulations while supporting general HR functions, including employee relations, HRIS management, and policy adherence. The ideal candidate possesses meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and a proven ability to manage complex payroll and benefits processes. This is an on-site position.

Key Responsibilities:

• Payroll Administration (Primary Focus): 

  • Process bi-weekly payroll for all employees using our HRIS/Payroll system, ADP Workforce Now, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness.

  • Manage time and attendance system inputs, review timesheets, and resolve any discrepancies.

  • Process new hires, terminations, changes in compensation, and various deductions (e.g., tax, benefits, garnishments).

  • Ensure compliance with federal, New York State, and New York City wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, and paid leave requirements (e.g., NYC Paid Safe and Sick Leave, NYS Paid Family Leave).

  • Reconcile payroll prior to transmission and validate confirmed reports.

  • Handle year-end payroll processing, including W-2 preparation and reconciliation.

  • Serve as the primary contact for payroll-related inquiries from employees and external vendors.

• Benefits Administration (Primary Focus): 

  • Administer all employee benefit plans (health, dental, vision, life, disability, 401(k), commuter benefits, etc.).

  • Manage new hire benefits enrollment, qualifying life event changes, and annual open enrollment processes.

  • Process and track all leaves of absence (FMLA, NY PFL, STD, LTD) in compliance with federal and state regulations.

  • Liaise with benefits brokers and vendors to ensure smooth administration, resolve issues, and communicate plan updates.

  • Conduct benefits orientations and provide guidance to employees on plan options and procedures.

• HRIS Management & Data Integrity: 

  • Maintain accurate and confidential employee data in the HR Information System (HRIS), ensuring data integrity for payroll and benefits.

  • Generate various HR and payroll reports as needed for compliance, analysis, and auditing.

• Employee Support & General HR: 

  • Serve as a knowledgeable resource for employees regarding payroll and benefits.

  • Assist with recruitment administration and new hire onboarding processes as needed.

  • Participate in special HR projects and initiatives.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
     None

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field. 

• Two years minimum of dedicated experience in payroll processing and benefits administration. 

• Proven expertise with HRIS and payroll systems (e.g., ADP, Paylocity, UKG, Workday). 

• Comprehensive knowledge of federal, New York State, and New York City employment laws, including FLSA, ERISA, FMLA, NY PFL, NYC Paid Safe and Sick Leave, and COBRA. 

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and processing.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly for payroll discrepancies and benefits escalations.

• Excellent organizational and time management abilities, proven to meet strict deadlines.

• Discreet and professional in handling sensitive and confidential employee information.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills for explaining complex benefits and payroll information.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

• Customer service-oriented approach when assisting employees.

COMPENSATION
Commensurate with education, skills, and experience, salary is $65,000 annually.

No phone calls or recruiters, please.

The New York Hall of Science is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an innovative environment with the best employees. We provide employment opportunities without regard to age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, military service, marital status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. We support a drug-free workplace. 

Please let us know if there are preparations we can make to help ensure you have a comfortable and positive interview experience.