Payroll HR Specialist - Annapolis Junction, MD

At Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates (HCEA), our employees are at the heart of everything we do. We're looking for a Payroll /HR Specialist who enjoys balancing the detail-oriented side of payroll with the people-focused side of human resources. If you're someone who takes pride in accuracy, enjoys helping others, and likes being part of a collaborative team, we'd love to meet you.

In this role, you'll work closely with our HR Manager to support employees throughout their entire employment journey-from recruiting and onboarding to payroll, benefits, and beyond. Every day brings something different, making this an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys variety and wants to make a meaningful impact.

Responsibilities

As our Payroll/HR Specialist, you'll help ensure our HR and payroll operations run smoothly while providing exceptional support to employees across the organization.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Process accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll using Paylocity while ensuring compliance with company policies and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Manage employee transactions in Paylocity, including new hires, promotions, salary changes, transfers, leaves of absence, and terminations.
• Manage applicable reporting files for 401k, manage PTO, and updating payroll spreadsheets for the next payroll.
• Assis with coordinating onboarding and offboarding activities.
• Manage pre-employment activities, including pre-employment checks.
• Assist with benefits administration by maintaining benefit records, supporting enrollments, and responding to employee questions regarding healthcare and other company benefits.
• Process unemployment claims, employment verification requests, and maintain accurate, confidential digital personnel files.
• Assist with tracking employee leaves of absence, including FMLA and short-term disability.
• Serve as a trusted resource for employee questions regarding payroll, benefits, and HR policies, providing clear and timely support.
• Assist with payroll reconciliations, audits, year-end processing, W-2 preparation, HR reporting, and special projects.
• Provide backup receptionist support and assist with additional administrative duties as needed.
• Maintain the highest level of confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive employee information.

Requirements:

We're looking for someone who is organized, dependable, and enjoys working with both numbers and people.

Qualifications include:

• Minimum of 3 years of payroll processing experience using Paylocity (required).
• Experience supporting HR functions such as recruiting, onboarding, benefits administration, or employee relations.
• Bachelor's degree, preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office.
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and consistently meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• A collaborative attitude and willingness to jump in wherever support is needed.

Why Join HCEA?

We're proud to offer a workplace where employees are valued, supported, and encouraged to grow. In addition to working alongside an experienced and collaborative team, you'll enjoy a competitive compensation and benefits package that includes:

• Competitive salary
• Medical, disability, and life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Generous paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth

If you're looking for a role where your payroll expertise and HR skills can make a real impact, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and become part of the HCEA team.

Hillis-Carnes is proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

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