Payroll & Benefits Specialist

About The Organization

Central Jackson County Fire Protection District is a committed public safety entity dedicated to delivering top-tier fire protection, emergency medical services, and community safety education within Jackson County. The district values professionalism, integrity, and community involvement, driven by a mission to safeguard lives and property with efficient and innovative emergency responses facilitated by a highly skilled team.

Position Overview

We are looking for a Payroll & Benefits Specialist to join our administrative staff full-time and on-site. This pivotal role oversees precise and timely payroll processing, manages employee benefits administration, and administers leave programs. The candidate will be the central contact for staff questions regarding payroll and benefits, ensuring adherence to laws and district policies, fostering a positive employee experience, and supporting operational success.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related fields preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in payroll processing, benefits management, or HR support, ideally in public safety or government sectors.
• Strong familiarity with payroll systems, benefit plans, and employment law compliance.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective interaction with employees and external partners.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, and knowledgeable about payroll and HRIS software.
• Ability to manage confidential data responsibly and ethically.
• Strong attention to detail paired with excellent organizational and multitasking capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute payroll processing and verification accurately on schedule, complying with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Oversee employee benefit programs such as health insurance, retirement plans, and voluntary benefits.
• Respond promptly to employee queries related to payroll, benefits, and leave policies.
• Maintain accurate and confidential HRIS employee records.
• Administer leave programs, including sick, vacation, and family leave, with proper documentation and compliance.
• Coordinate benefits enrollment, claims, and policy renewals with vendors and insurance providers.
• Facilitate the benefits open enrollment period and clearly communicate updates to staff.
• Ensure full compliance with applicable laws and organizational policies regarding payroll and benefits.
• Assist with audits and generate reports on payroll and benefits data as needed.
• Engage in ongoing improvement initiatives to optimize HR and payroll operations and employee satisfaction.

Benefits Package

The district provides a robust benefits program encompassing competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; retirement plans; paid leave; and wellness initiatives. Professional development and training opportunities are available to support career growth. A supportive and inclusive workplace culture encourages employees to excel while serving the community effectively.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Central Jackson County Fire Protection District is an equal opportunity employer that values diverse backgrounds and promotes a collaborative and respectful work environment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or other protected categories.