Payroll & Benefits Specialist

At Frontier Cooperative, we believe agriculture is more than a business, it's a way of life. As an agricultural leader serving Nebraska's farming communities, we provide a comprehensive range of grain, agronomy, feed, and energy products and services. But what sets us apart is how we do it: with integrity, with quality, and with a deep commitment to the communities we're proud to call home. We're looking for people who share those values and want to grow with us.

We're seeking a detail-oriented Payroll & Benefits Specialist to join our Lincoln, NE team. This role is responsible for accurate payroll processing, benefits administration, leave management, and retirement programs for a workforce of 450+ employees.

What you'll do: 

• Process accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll for salaried and hourly employees using BambooHR
• Verify and process working hours, overtime, leave, garnishments, taxes, retirement contributions, and insurance deductions
• Calculate payroll amounts including overtime, bonuses, and deductions; generate and maintain payroll records
• Support correct tax processing and reporting of fringe benefits

• Train managers on timesheet adjustments, approvals, and leave administration; provide ongoing support
• Onboard new employees to timekeeping systems including time entry, leave requests, and timecard approvals

• Assist with onboarding to ensure payroll and benefits paperwork is completed accurately through the HRIS system
• Coordinate annual open enrollment and monthly new-hire enrollments for timely and accurate benefit elections
• Audit benefit enrollments and provide eligibility files to insurance vendors
• Respond to employee and manager inquiries regarding benefits, enrollments, life events, and plan provisions
• Assist employees with benefits claims and plan changes due to qualifying life events

• Process and administer leave of absence requests including medical, disability, and FMLA
• Interpret and apply FMLA and ADA requirements related to leaves and accommodations
• Lead workers' compensation claims including first report of injury, coordination with insurance carriers, and communication with leadership

• Respond to 401(k) inquiries related to enrollment, contributions, and plan changes; manage annual catch-up contribution enrollments
• Participate in annual 401(k), workers' compensation, and payroll audits
• Manage payroll functions for the defined benefit program including uploads, audits, and coordination with third-party administrators
• Prepare and distribute required reports and plan documentation

What we are looking for: 

• 1–2 years of experience processing payroll and/or benefits 
• Strong knowledge of employment and wage laws, payroll practices, and leave administration
• Solid understanding of accounting fundamentals and payroll best practices
• Proficiency with payroll/timekeeping systems and Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills
• Ability to document processes and stay current with industry trends

Why join us? Full-time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, finances, and future.

• Paycheck for life: Cooperative pension plan, plus 401(k) with traditional and Roth options
• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, supplemental plans, and FSA/HSA spending accounts
• Paid time off: Vacation and sick leave to rest and recharge
• Uniform & boot allowances: Annual allowances so you're always equipped and ready
• 360 Wellness Program: Whole-person wellness with real incentives
• Sign-on & referral bonuses: Get rewarded for joining and for bringing great people with you

Additional benefits available — ask us for details.