The Payroll & HR Specialist will be responsible for managing end-to-end payroll processing while supporting key human resources functions at our Atlanta & Salem sites. This role ensures payroll accuracy, compliance with federal and state regulations, and delivers HR operational support including employee records management, onboarding, and benefits administration. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. Key Responsibilities Payroll Administration Process full-cycle payroll (weekly/biweekly) for hourly and salaried employees. Ensure accurate calculation of wages, overtime, bonuses, benefits deductions, and other adjustments. Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Coordinate with finance to reconcile payroll accounts and resolve discrepancies. Support external or internal audit requests. Handle garnishments, tax filings, and benefits-related payroll deductions. Ensure proper allocation and integration of benefits costs into payroll. Act as primary point of contact for payroll-related employee inquiries. Benefits Administration Administer all employee benefits programs (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), etc.). Manage enrollments, life events, terminations, and benefits changes. Oversee benefits billing, vendor invoices, and reconciliation processes. Prepare and deliver benefits-related reports and analysis. Ensure accurate and timely integration/imputation of benefits data into payroll (deductions, employer contributions, adjustments). Partner with benefits providers to resolve discrepancies and ensure service quality. Support open enrollment process and employee communications. HR Operations Maintain and update employee records in HRIS, ensuring data accuracy and confidentiality. Support onboarding and offboarding processes (documentation, system setup, etc.). Ensure compliance with company policies, labor laws, and HR best practices. Support employee relations matters and escalate issues when needed. Assist with HR reporting and metrics (turnover, headcount, etc.). Partner with managers to support day-to-day HR needs.