NCE is seeking a detail-oriented Payroll & Benefits Specialist to administer payroll, employee benefits, leave programs, HR compliance activities, HRIS data management, and employee support services. This role serves as a key resource for employees regarding pay, benefits, leave of absence programs, and payroll-related questions while supporting compliance with federal, state, and local requirements. The ideal candidate is highly organized, service-oriented, and able to manage confidential information with accuracy and discretion. This position is based in NCE's Reno, Nevada office and reports directly to the Human Resources Manager. Responsibilities: • Process multi-state payroll accurately and in accordance with established payroll schedules. • Audit employee time records, PTO balances, compensation changes, deductions, reimbursements, tax withholdings, and payroll reports. • Maintain payroll records and ensure data accuracy within payroll and HRIS. • Process garnishments, wage assignments, tax levies, direct deposits, and payroll adjustments. • Reconcile payroll records, quarterly tax filings, and year-end payroll processes while supporting payroll audits, compliance activities, and regulatory reporting requirements. • Generate payroll reports and provide information to Accounting department, management, and auditors as requested. • Administer medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP, wellness, HSA, FSA, and retirement benefit programs. • Administer employee benefit programs, including enrollments, eligibility audits, benefits orientation, ACA reporting, qualifying life events, employment status changes, terminations, and COBRA administration. • Coordinate and support annual open enrollment activities and employee benefit education. • Reconcile monthly insurance invoices and resolve discrepancies with carriers and vendors. • Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefit plans, eligibility, coverage, claims, and enrollment questions. • Support annual insurance renewals and work closely with brokers, consultants, and third-party administrators. • Administer and track FMLA, ADA accommodations, worker’s compensation leave, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, state leave programs, and other leaves of absence. • Coordinate leave communications with employees, managers, healthcare providers, and insurance carriers while maintaining confidentiality. • Maintain accurate employee leave records and monitor leave usage, return-to-work status, and compliance with applicable regulations and company policies. • All other duties as assigned. Qualifications (Must Have): • Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered. • Five or more years of payroll and/or benefits administration experience. • Experience processing payroll in a multi-state environment. • Experience administering FMLA, ADA, STD, LTD, and state leave programs. • Working knowledge of employee benefits administration and leave management. • Experience with HRIS and payroll systems. • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office. • Excellent attention to detail, organization, communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills. • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism. Qualifications (Nice to Have): • ADP Workforce Now experience. • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP), PHR, SHRM-CP, or similar certification. • Experience in engineering, consulting, construction, or professional services. • Working knowledge of prevailing wage laws and certified payroll requirements, particularly for public works projects. • Knowledge of ACA reporting and benefits compliance requirements. • Experience reconciling payroll and benefits data with accounting records. Working Conditions: • Primarily office-based work with prolonged periods of sitting and computer use. • Frequent interaction with employees, managers, insurance carriers, and third-party vendors. • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. • Occasional travel for training or company meetings may be required. Salary range: $80,000 – $90,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications