Overview
Payroll and Benefits Specialist (I/II) Jobs in Portland, ME at Greater Portland Transit District
Company Overview
Greater Portland Metro is dedicated to enhancing community mobility through public transportation. We strive to make a positive impact in the lives of our residents by providing reliable transit services while fostering a supportive work environment for our employees.
Summary
We are seeking a Payroll & Benefits Specialist (I/II) to join our team at Greater Portland Metro. In this role, you will be responsible for the processing of in-house weekly payroll and the administration of employee benefits in a unionized environment. You will ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements, while delivering high-quality service across both payroll and benefits functions to employees and internal stakeholders.
Responsibilities
Payroll Processing: Process end-to-end weekly payroll, including system setup, processing adjustments, calculating and issuing checks, coordinating payment distribution (direct deposits), and completing all post-payroll activities such as reconciliation and tax deposits.
Tax Filings: Calculate, file, and remit payroll taxes in compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations.
Quarter and Year-End Reporting: Independently prepare and file all required periodic reports including but not limited to quarterly 941, 941ME, unemployment insurance wage reporting, quarterly wage and annual W2’s, 1095 and 1094 as required by ACA assist with year-end payroll reconciliation and reporting.
Benefits Administration: Assist employees with benefits enrollment, changes, and inquiries; track and manage employee leaves of absence, including FMLA and other medical leaves.
Leave Management: Coordinate medical leave, disability claims with insurance providers and third-party administrators.
Benefits Reconciliation: Perform monthly reconciliations of benefit accounts to ensure accuracy in deductions and billing.
System Maintenance: Maintain and update employee data within the automated payroll system and time and attendance application.
Reporting: Generate and provide payroll and benefits-related reports and data analysis to management.
Audit Preparation: Prepare information for financial audits, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Customer Service: Provide superior customer service by responding to employee inquiries related to payroll and benefits in a timely and professional manner.
Compliance: Ensure all payroll and benefits processes comply with internal policies, applicable laws, and the collective bargaining agreement.
Minimum Qualifications for Level I:
1-2 years of experience in payroll processing and benefits administration.
Basic understanding of payroll processes, labor laws, and tax regulations and employment laws.
Familiarity with payroll and HRIS and HRIS systems.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other standard office software.
Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
Customer service orientation and effective communication skills.
Associate’s degree in Accounting, Human Resources, Business Administration is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
Minimum Qualifications for Level II:
Meet all Level I qualifications.
3 years of experience in payroll processing and benefits administration, preferably in a unionized environment.
Proven ability to independently manage end-to-end payroll processing and resolve complex payroll or benefits issues.
Experience with quarter-end and year-end processes (e.g., 941 filings, W-2 preparation).
Advanced knowledge of payroll regulations, tax compliance, and benefit programs.
Strong analytical and reconciliation skills.
Ability to interpret and apply provisions of collective bargaining agreement related to payroll and benefits.
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Human Resources, Business Administration is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
Essential Knowledge, Skills, Aptitudes:
High level of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly when processing payroll and benefits data.
Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
Strong ability to analyze payroll data and generate reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with employees, management, and external stakeholders.
Strong focus on providing timely and professional support to employees regarding payroll and benefits inquiries.
Ability to address and resolve payroll discrepancies, benefits-related issues, and employee concerns effectively.
Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
Proficient in using payroll and time keeping applications as well as Microsoft Office Applications (particularly Excel).
Ability to quickly adapt to changing payroll and benefits policies, regulations, and software systems.
Solid understanding of payroll laws, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements, as well as knowledge of employee insurance benefit programs and public-sector retirement plans, with the ability to ensure compliance across all payroll and benefits-related activities.
Demonstrates a strong alignment with and commitment to the agency’s mission, values, and service goals; acts with integrity and professionalism in support of organizational objectives.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $57,893.00 – $74,641.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Flexible spending account
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Tuition reimbursement
Vision insurance
Schedule:
10 hour shift
Day shift
Experience:
payroll processing and benefits administration: 2 years (Required)
941 filings and W-2 preparation: 1 year (Required)
Collective Bargaining Agreement: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
Portland, ME 04102 (Required)
Work Location: In person
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Title: Payroll and Benefits Specialist (I/II)
Company: Greater Portland Transit District
Location: Portland, ME
