HR Benefits and Payroll Specialist

Job Summary/Company: Sparks Group is seeking an experienced Part Time HR Benefits & Payroll Specialist to join our team in a pivotal, hands-on role. This is for a 9-12 month contract. This individual will be the trusted guardian of our benefits administration and multi-state payroll, driving total accuracy and compliance across all locations while delivering an excellent support experience for our entire workforce. This position will be in office 3 days a week in the Reston, VA area. 

Responsibilities:

• Administer employee benefits programs, including enrollments, changes, and terminations.
• Coordinate open enrollment, vendor file feeds, and invoice reconciliation.
• Process biweekly payroll for approximately 60 employees across multiple states, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Maintain accurate employee records, tax setup, and direct deposit information.
• Audit payroll for accuracy—including earnings, deductions, bonuses, garnishments, and retro pay.
• Reconcile payroll data and support general ledger reporting.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, taxes, and benefits in a timely and professional manner.
• Assist with year-end reporting (W-2s, ACA/1095-C, and other required filings).
• Maintain strict confidentiality and uphold company compliance standards.

Qualifications/Background Profile:

• Education & Experience:

  • Associate’s degree plus 7+ years of direct experience in payroll and benefits, OR

  • Bachelor’s degree plus 5+ years of direct experience in payroll and benefits, OR

  • 10+ years of proven, directly related experience in payroll and benefits.

• Technical Expertise:

  • Mandatory experience managing complex multi-state payrolls.

  • Demonstrated proficiency with PayTech Vantage and ADP Workforce Now.

  • Comprehensive and current understanding of federal and state payroll laws, compliance regulations, and reporting requirements.

• Benefits & Administration:

  • Proven experience in benefits administration, including managing new enrollments and performing rigorous invoice audits.

• Professional Skills:

  • Possess exceptional attention to detail, a commitment to accuracy and rigor, and superior organizational skills.

  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, effectively managing and prioritizing tasks.

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This job is In-Person.

We offer several comprehensive benefits package including health and life insurance, paid and unpaid time off, and retirement and savings plans to qualifying employees.

Download the Sparks Group mobile app from Apple App Store or Google Play.

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Sparks Group is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, citizenship, family status, genetic information, disability, or protect veteran status.