Payroll & Benefits Coordinator
Job Description:
Payroll & Benefits Coordinator
Location: Hybrid (3 days onsite) – Hackensack, NJ
Compensation: $65,000 – $110,000 base salary
Benefits: Full benefits package
Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the U.S. — no visa sponsorship
Important Location Note: This office location is not commutable by public transportation. Candidates must have reliable means of travel.
The Opportunity
HireNow Staffing is acting as a direct placement partner for a respected regional law firm seeking a Payroll & Benefits Coordinator to join its New Jersey office.
This role is responsible for the accurate, timely processing of payroll and the day-to-day administration of employee benefits. The ideal candidate brings strong technical payroll knowledge, a high level of discretion, and the ability to manage sensitive information with professionalism. This position is well suited for someone who values stability, accuracy, and long-term growth within a structured professional services environment.
Only candidates with demonstrated job longevity and consistent career progression will be considered. Temporary, contract-heavy, or frequently changing work histories will not align with this opportunity.
Key Responsibilities
Payroll & Benefits Administration
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Manage end-to-end payroll processing within ADP Workforce Now, including data imports, audits, reconciliations, and approvals
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Verify timecards, hours worked, overtime calculations, and leave accruals
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Review payroll registers and validate all payroll data prior to submission
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Administer benefits programs, including new enrollments, employee changes, and ongoing support
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Provide clear benefits guidance and counseling to employees as needed
Compliance & Reporting
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Ensure payroll and benefits processes remain compliant with federal, state, and local regulations
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Process garnishments, wage assignments, deductions, and related documentation
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Assist with quarterly and annual payroll tax filings and reconciliations
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Support year-end payroll responsibilities, including W-2 preparation and audit coordination
Employee Support & Confidentiality
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Respond to employee payroll and benefits inquiries with professionalism and urgency
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Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll records, personal data, and benefits information
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Support onboarding related to payroll setup, benefits elections, and timekeeping systems
Systems & Financial Coordination
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Maintain accurate payroll system updates for employee changes and reporting needs
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Reconcile payroll accounts and partner with Finance on general ledger postings
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Collaborate with HR and IT to resolve payroll system issues and support process enhancements
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Review monthly premium statements for medical, life, and other benefit plans
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Maintain relationships with insurance carriers and brokers to ensure accurate enrollments and timely issue resolution
Required Qualifications (Non-Negotiable)
These qualifications are mandatory. Candidates who do not meet all requirements will not be considered for interview.
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Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
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2+ years of payroll processing experience in a professional environment
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Working knowledge of ADP Workforce Now payroll and benefits modules
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Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including formatting, validation, and data accuracy checks
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Strong understanding of payroll laws, wage and hour compliance, and tax regulations
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Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, discretion, and integrity
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Demonstrated resume stability and job longevity
Preferred Qualifications (Strong Differentiators)
Candidates with the following experience will be viewed as standout applicants:
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Multi-state payroll exposure
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Understanding of general ledger and accounting coordination
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Payroll certification (FPC or CPP)
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Prior experience in a law firm or professional services organization
Core Competencies
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
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Excellent organizational discipline and deadline management
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Clear, professional communication and employee service orientation
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Ability to work independently while coordinating across departments
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High level of confidentiality and discretion with sensitive employee information