Human Resources Generalist

Payroll
The Human Resource Generalist will primarily support payroll processing and compensation activities while also aiding in benefits administration when needed. This role requires excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills to support a diverse workforce consisting of engineering, finance, and operations employees who work in treatment plants, pump stations, and administrative offices.

Payroll

Essential Functions:

Payroll Processing and Compliance

• Review and audit employee timesheet entries for accuracy and compliance with policies.
• Process bi-weekly payroll for all employees.
• Validate and process compensation changes, including salary adjustments and overtime calculations (including weighted average overtime).
• Process payroll-related deductions, including voluntary deductions (e.g., benefits, and retirement contributions) and involuntary deductions (e.g., garnishments and income withholding orders).
• Prepare payment wires for payroll submissions to finance.
• Ensure compliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and other federal and state payroll regulations.
• Assist in year-end activities, including W-2 preparation and closing tax quarters, while collaborating with the payroll vendor.
• Address employee questions about pay statements, deductions, and payroll processes promptly and accurately.
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure sensitive payroll data is securely stored and processed.

Compensation Activities

• Support the annual merit increase process by validating and processing salary changes.
• Maintain and update job aids and standard operating procedures related to payroll and compensation processes.
• Generate reports and data as needed for internal audits and external compliance reviews.

Benefits Administration Support

• Collaborate with the benefits team to process corrections, reimbursements, and additional deductions related to benefits.
• Provide general benefits-related information to employees during HR CARES initiatives and answer questions about open enrollment, retirement, and benefit updates.

Employee Support and Education

• Conduct new hire orientation presentations, focusing on timesheet entry, payroll processes, tax withholding forms and direct deposit setup.
• Participate in monthly HR CARES site visits to present on compensation and payroll topics, answer employee questions, and resolve concerns.
• Create and distribute announcements and memos related to payroll and compensation topics using Microsoft Office Suite.

Administrative Duties

• Process reimbursements for footwear, safety wear, and tuition programs.
• Manage sewer bill payroll deductions and associated reporting.
• Maintain accurate records and provide documentation for audits.
• Process invoices related to payroll and compensation activities, including the boots program.
• Ensure proper filing and retention of payroll and compensation documents.

Additional Responsibilities:

• This is a critical role that demands accuracy, confidentiality, and a strong work ethic. 
• The generalist may take on other responsibilities as assigned, contributing to the success of the department and organization.

Payroll
Training and Experience:

• Associate's degree or 60 college credit hours in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Four (4) years of experience in payroll processing or a related role.
• Strong understanding of payroll processes, tax regulations, and wage laws.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proficiency in payroll software
• Relevant payroll certifications (e.g., CPP – Certified Payroll Professional) are a plus.
• Strong knowledge of payroll taxes and deductions.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to analyze payroll data and generate reports.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle complex payroll issues.
• A proactive approach to process improvement and identifying efficiencies.
• Excellent time-management skills and the ability to work under pressure during payroll cycles.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

Must possess a valid driver's license issued by the state in which the employee resides.

Pursuant to MSD's "Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures," this position has been designated as non-safety
sensitive and candidate must pass a Non-D.O.T. Drug Test for this position. Employees occupying this
position are not subject to Federal (D.O.T.) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations.

All current employees must have a 'Meets Expectations' or 'Proficient' rating on their most recent performance evaluation to be eligible.

Physical Demands

• Stationary Position: Occasionally
• Move/Traverse: Occasionally
• Stationary Position/Seated: Constantly
• Transport/Lifting: Rarely
• Transport/Carrying: Rarely
• Exerting Force/Pushing: Rarely
• Exerting Force/Pulling: Rarely
• Ascend/Descend: Rarely
• Balancing: Rarely
• Position Self/Stooping: Rarely
• Position Self/Kneeling: Rarely
• Position Self/Crouching: Rarely
• Position Self/Crawling: Rarely
• Reaching: Rarely
• Handling: Occasionally
• Grasping: Occasionally
• Feeling: Rarely
• Communicate/Talking: Constantly
• Communicate/Hearing: Constantly
• Repetitive Motions: Frequently
• Coordination: Frequently

Work Environment

• Extreme cold: Rarely
• Extreme heat: Rarely
• Humidity: Rarely
• Wet: Rarely
• Noise: Occasionally
• Hazards: Rarely
• Temperature Change: Rarely
• Atmospheric Conditions: Rarely
• Vibration: Rarely