HR Manager and Payroll Specialist

About the Role:

The HR Manager and Payroll Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of human resources and payroll functions within a healthcare environment. Cherry Brook is a 100 bed skilled nursing facility located in Canton, CT.  We have approximately 120 employees who work to take care of our residents. This position is responsible for managing employee relations, recruitment, compliance with labor laws, and benefits administration while also overseeing accurate and timely payroll processing. The role requires a strategic approach to workforce planning and development, ensuring that staffing aligns with organizational goals and regulatory requirements. The successful candidate will serve as a trusted advisor to management and staff, fostering a positive workplace culture and addressing employee concerns effectively. Ultimately, this role ensures that all HR and payroll activities support the organization's mission to provide high-quality care and services to the community while maintaining operational efficiency and compliance.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in human resources management and payroll processing, must have experience within a skilled nursing facility.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and payroll regulations.
• Proficiency with payroll software and HR information systems (HRIS).
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of Payroll Based Journal reporting (PBJ) as well as CMS and DPH regulations in CT.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certification such as SHRM-CP, PHR, or CPP (Certified Payroll Professional).
• Experience with healthcare-specific HR and payroll systems.
• Familiarity with benefits administration platforms and employee wellness programs.
• Demonstrated ability to lead HR projects and change management initiatives.
• Advanced computer skills with the ability to generate reports, build spreadsheets and presentations and provide data as required.

Responsibilities:

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing, including calculating wages, deductions, benefits, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Oversee recruitment processes, including job postings, interviewing, onboarding, and maintaining accurate employee records.
• Administer employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, leave policies, and wellness initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws, healthcare regulations, and organizational policies by conducting regular audits and updating procedures as necessary.
• Provide guidance and support to management and employees on HR policies, conflict resolution, performance management, and professional development.
• Maintain confidentiality and security of employee information and payroll data.
• Collaborate with finance and accounting teams to reconcile payroll accounts and prepare reports for audits and budgeting purposes.
• Develop and implement HR strategies that promote employee engagement, retention, and organizational growth.

Skills:

The required skills enable the HR Manager and Payroll Specialist to efficiently manage complex payroll cycles and ensure compliance with all relevant laws, which is critical in the healthcare industry. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are used daily to interact with employees, management, and external vendors, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. Proficiency in HRIS and payroll software allows for accurate data management and streamlined processes, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Preferred skills such as certification and advanced data analysis enhance the ability to lead strategic HR initiatives and provide insightful reporting to support decision-making. Together, these skills ensure the role contributes to both operational excellence and a positive employee experience within the organization.