Payroll and Benefits Specialist

JOB TITLE:  Payroll and Benefits Specialist

CLUB: Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Reign FC

DEPARTMENT: People & Culture

REPORTS TO: Payroll & Benefits Manager

TYPE: Full-Time Regular

FLSA: Exempt

TYPE: Individual Contributor

 

OUR CLUBS

Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Reign FC are entering an exciting new era as one soccer family with a shared commitment of excellence and growth on and off the pitch. Each club has independently forged a rich history of performance while connecting deeply with the community. Our clubs are continually pushing the boundaries of what's possible while fostering an inclusive culture- championing causes and building community connections to expand our reach and impact. Each match is an opportunity to bring together our community, celebrating our resilience, inclusivity, and a commitment to excellence. United in professional dedication- we are two clubs with one shared vision of progress and greatness.

 

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Payroll and Benefits Specialist plays a critical role within the People & Culture team, ensuring seamless and compliant HR operations for Seattle Sounders FC and Reign FC. This role encompasses payroll administration, benefits management, leave programs, and HR systems management, alongside contributing to process improvements and operational excellence.

Success in this position requires a proactive, detail-oriented individual with strong technical proficiency, exceptional organizational skills, and a passion for continuous improvement. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, and is committed to enhancing employee experience through efficient HR practices and the integration of technologies.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 

Payroll and Timekeeping:

• Accurately process bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll, including data entry for new hires, terminations, and changes in employee status.
• Review and reconcile timesheets to ensure accuracy, resolving discrepancies promptly.
• Respond to payroll inquiries with timely and accurate resolutions, maintaining a high level of customer service.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations and prepare payroll reports for management and audit purposes.

HR Systems and Data Management:

• Maintain employee data in HRIS systems and financial reporting systems, ensuring accuracy, and generating timely workforce metrics and compliance reports.
• Collaborate with IT and Finance teams to optimize system functionality and troubleshoot issues.

Benefits Administration:

• Administer employee benefits programs, ensuring accurate enrollment, clear communication and ongoing support for employee inquiries.
• Monitor compliance with applicable laws and regulations related to benefits, such as ACA and COBRA.

Leave Program Management:

• Manage and administer employee leave programs, including but not limited to FMLA, parental leave, and paid time off (PTO), ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Serve as point of contact for employees and managers regarding leave policies and procedures, ensuring clear communication and support.

Policy and Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to local, state, and federal employment laws, including payroll and benefits compliance.
• Assist in the development and implementation of policies that align with organizational goals and legal requirements.

Process Improvement:

• Identify and implement opportunities to streamline payroll, benefits, and HR operations, leveraging technology to enhance efficiency.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends, including AI applications, to improve HR processes and employee experience.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain up-to-date HR documents, such as organizational charts, directories, and compliance forms.
• Prepare periodic reports and data analyses to support decision-making and operational improvements.

Other Responsibilities:

• Contribute to cross-functional HR projects and initiatives for Reign FC and Sounders FC as needed.
• Create materials to support education and promotion of our employee programs and policies.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• 3+ years’ in HR operations experience with a focus on payroll, benefits administration, and HRIS management, and compliance.
• Strong understanding of federal, state, and local employment laws, payroll regulations, and benefits compliance.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain accuracy in fast-paced environments.
• Strong technical proficiency in HR systems, particularly HRIS (e.g., ADP) and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, and data analysis. Experience with AI tools a plus.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. Ability to handle confidential information with tact and diplomacy.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a strategic mindset, leveraging data and analysis to recommend innovative HR solutions.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, ensuring consistency and compliance across all HR operations and documentation.
• Commitment to continuous learning and improvement, including the integration of innovative technologies in HR processes. Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks while maintaining high standards of accuracy and meeting deadlines.
• Strong alignment with the organization’s values, and mission to create moments, enrich lives and unify and uplift through soccer, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

• This role requires regular in-person work at our Headquarters & Training Facility in Renton, WA as part of a hybrid work arrangement.
• Flexibility to occasionally adjust hours to meet payroll deadlines or needs.
• Must reside within Washington state upon date of hire.
• Must be able to facilitate own local travel.
• Must be eligible to work in the US without sponsorship

 

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS & PERKS 

We offer competitive compensation and an engaging, supportive environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of our people by providing the following top-notch benefits.  

The annual salary range for this position is $70,000 - $85,000. Base pay at time of offer will take into account job-related knowledge, skills and experience required for the role, internal equity and market.  

Our Total Rewards package for full-time team members includes: 

• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage: We offer 100% employer-sponsored premiums for you and your dependents. 

• Generous and Flexible PTO: Our Paid Time Off plan is designed with your well-being in mind, offering unlimited paid vacation. 

• Retirement Planning Support: 401(k) retirement plan matching, helping you secure your financial future with ease. 

• Inclusive Parental Leave: Our gender-neutral parental leave program provides 12-16 weeks of paid leave, giving new parents the time and support they need during this important life stage. 

• Exclusive Perks: Enjoy complimentary tickets to matches, making it easier for you to experience the excitement firsthand. 

• Continuous Growth Opportunities: We invest in your learning and development through various programs and resources. 

• Community Engagement: We provide a variety of volunteer opportunities that align with our social impact goals and RAVE Foundation initiatives, empowering you to make a meaningful difference in the Seattle community. 

 

 

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every employee is respected, valued and supported. We celebrate our diverse work environment and welcome team members of all backgrounds and perspectives. To that end, if you do not meet every job requirement listed, we still encourage you to apply. We believe your relevant experience and expertise will help us become a high-performing best-in-class workplace for all. Women, gender-nonbinary, people of color, LGBTQIA+ people and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The physical demands reflected in the duties and work environment herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. If you’d like to request an accommodation in the application or interview process, please do so by emailing the SRFC HR Team.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.

 

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