Human Resources Payroll and Compensation Specialist

Description

The Human Resources Payroll and Compensation Specialist supports core HR functions, with primary responsibility for payroll administration, compensation market research, and compliance. Working on a multi-faceted team, this role transitions smoothly between projects and manages multiple priorities efficiently. Daily tasks include accurately processing payroll and benefit changes, responding to employee, retiree, and board member questions and concerns, supporting process and program implementation, and ensuring the quality of information provided. Success in this role requires strategic, empathetic problem-solving and first-class customer service.

Requirements

Essential Functions:

• Processes and maintains employee changes affecting payroll, including pay, benefit contributions and deductions, garnishments, tax withholdings, and direct deposit information; coordinates with Accounting to resolve discrepancies.
• Administers employee compensation changes, including new hire rates, transfers, pay adjustments, pay scale placement, and scheduled adjustments.
• Updates and maintains employee, payroll, compensation, and benefits information accurately using the organization’s HRIS and related systems including new hires, transfers, benefits elections, organizational changes, and other employee status changes.
• Serves as a professional point of contact for employees, supervisors, and internal partners on payroll, compensation, and other HR matters, including navigating sensitive concerns and conflicts while maintaining confidentiality.
• Maintains payroll, compensation, headcount, and employee change reports and records, and safeguards sensitive information in accordance with established confidentiality requirements.
• Applies applicable HR policies, practices, and regulatory requirements when administering employee pay and benefits, including HIPAA, FLSA, COBRA, and ERISA requirements.
• Conducts the annual market pay analysis by participating in compensation surveys, matching internal positions to appropriate market benchmarks, compiling and analyzing market data, and developing compensation recommendations for leadership.
• Conducts and supports HR-related audits, including workers’ compensation audits, by compiling and reviewing records, validating information, researching discrepancies, and coordinating required documentation and follow-up.
• Prepares reports, tracks data, and supports departmental projects requiring accuracy, organization, confidentiality, and timely follow-through.
• Supports talent acquisition by reviewing candidates, participating in interviews, and providing legally compliant guidance to hiring managers.
• Supports new hire orientation by presenting information on benefits, timekeeping, policies, wellness programs, and HR resources.
• Provides logistical support in wellness, engagement, recognition, company, and community activities.
• Organizes and prioritizes multiple assignments and shifting deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Maintain regular and timely attendance.
• Perform other duties/special projects as required.
• Participate on behalf of the company in community and company-sponsored activities as requested.
• Attend safety meetings, complete safety & security trainings, and maintain a safe working environment.
• Actively maintain and enhance job-related knowledge and skills through ongoing professional learning and development.

Minimum Qualifications:

• An associate degree or bachelor's degree preferred. 
• Strong experience with Excel, data manipulation, and data analysis preferred.
• 3-5 years of experience or transferrable skills preferred.
• Professional HR certification (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR, or equivalent) preferred, or ability to obtain certification.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and the ability to travel throughout the company’s service area is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Understanding of human resources principles, practices, procedures, and applicable employment laws and regulations.
• Understanding of payroll and compensation administration, including benefit deductions, garnishments, tax withholdings, pay-scale administration, market pay analysis, compensation surveys, HR audits, and wage-and-hour requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when working with employee records, payroll and benefits information, reports, and other HR data.
• Maintains strict confidentiality and appropriate handling of employee, payroll, compensation, benefits, and other sensitive or restricted information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, Word, and Teams.
• Experience using HRIS, applicant tracking, payroll, reporting, and other HR-related systems and technology.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate professionally with employees, applicants, managers, leadership, vendors, and other stakeholders.
• Effective organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing business needs.
• Demonstrates sound judgment and professionalism when addressing sensitive employee matters and workplace concerns.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to research, evaluate, compare, and interpret information to support HR and compensation decisions and processes.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.
• Demonstrated dependability, punctuality, ethical conduct, and commitment to safe work practices.

Physical Abilities:

• Frequently sitting, standing, or walking for extended periods.
• Frequently use a computer, keyboard, mouse, camera equipment, and other office technology for extended periods.
• Frequently read computer screens and other documents requiring close visual acuity.
• Frequently communicate in person, by telephone, and through virtual communication platforms.
• Frequently perform repetitive hand and finger movements.
• Occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and lift or carry up to 30 pounds.
• Occasionally drive or travel locally or long distances.

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in a professional office environment with moderate noise levels. 
• May involve limited exposure to varying indoor environmental conditions (e.g., temperature fluctuations, noise, or dust).
• Role requires extended use of computer systems, multiple monitors, and communication tools throughout the workday. 
• Work environment may include frequent interruptions and time-sensitive tasks with competing priorities.
• Occasionally work may be performed outdoors and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, noise levels, and environmental conditions.
• Driving may be necessary at times based on business needs, event support, or assigned responsibilities.

Who is FOCUS Broadband?

FOCUS Broadband is North Carolina's largest communications cooperative. Formerly known as ATMC, our humble roots began in 1955 when residents banded together to bring telephone service to Brunswick County for the first time. Today, our team provides high-speed fiber optic internet, Wireless, Security, and more. 

FOCUS Broadband is proud of our history and reputation for putting our customers first. FOCUS Broadband has built its reputation by providing outstanding customer service and technology. We are building a next-generation, 100% fiber-optic network in Brunswick County. We are expanding our reach to serve portions of Bladen, Chowan, Columbus, Duplin, Hoke, Pender, Perquimans, Robeson, and Scotland counties. 

As employees at FOCUS Broadband, our team enjoys rewarding, challenging, and exciting careers. Though we number more than 350 employees, FOCUS Broadband maintains a small company feel by letting employees know they are appreciated, valued, and recognized. Our team enjoys competitive earnings and excellent benefits, including a 401k with a company match with an additional company contribution to the 401k, an on-site clinic, a lucrative wellness program, tuition reimbursement to help with career advancement, and much more. FOCUS Broadband is a "Local Company with Local Priorities."

Are you ready to start an exciting career with FOCUS Broadband?

FOCUS Broadband Benefits:

• Competitive salaries
• 401k company contribution plus a tiered match
• Employer-paid premiums for Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage for employees 
• Employer-paid Short-Term and Long-term Disability coverage
• Employer-paid AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment) and Term-life
• On-site clinic available Monday-Friday
• Wellness Bonus Program - including gym reimbursement 
• Tuition reimbursement
• Generous PTO & paid holidays