Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Position Summary

The Payroll & Benefits Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll and administration of benefits for a 24/7 emergency medical services (EMS) workforce. This role supports a complex environment that includes shift differentials, overtime, union agreements, and certification-based pay structures. The Specialist ensures compliance with all applicable regulations while delivering responsive, high-quality support to employees.  This role ensures compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations while providing high-quality support to employees regarding compensation and benefits-related inquiries.

This role requires strong attention to detail, confidentiality, regulatory awareness, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Payroll Administration

• Process payroll weekly, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Maintain payroll records, including wages, deductions, and tax information
• Ensure compliance with applicable wage and hour laws, including overtime and union agreements (if applicable)
• Coordinate payroll changes such as new hires, terminations, promotions, and benefit deductions
• Reconcile payroll reports and resolve discrepancies
• Prepare and submit payroll tax filings and related reporting
• Serve as liaison with payroll vendors and auditors

Benefits Administration

• Administer employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and retirement plans
• Manage employee enrollments, changes, and terminations in benefit systems
• Coordinate and support annual open enrollment processes
• Ensure compliance with regulations such as ACA, COBRA, FMLA, and ERISA
• Reconcile benefit invoices and ensure accurate billing
• Act as primary point of contact for employee benefits questions and issue resolution
• Partner with brokers and vendors to maintain and improve benefit offerings

Compliance & Reporting

• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll and benefits regulations
• Prepare internal reports related to payroll, benefits, and compensation
• Support audits by providing required documentation and analysis
• Maintain confidentiality of employee records and sensitive information

Employee Support

• Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, and benefits in a timely and professional manner
• Provide education and guidance on total compensation and benefits offerings
• Assist HR team with onboarding and offboarding processes

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 2–3 years of experience in payroll, benefits, or HR Administration.
• Working knowledge of payroll laws and benefit administration requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

VMSC is a proud recipient of the 2025 Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Aware for Compensation & Benefits.

Pay & Perks

• $28.00-$31.00/hour
• A chance to be part of a respected agency that’s been saving lives for over 90 years.
• Supportive leadership, ongoing training, and a mission-driven culture.

Our Benefits Package (one of the most robust in the region):

• $0 copays & $0 deductibles on medical insurance — you and your family receive care without hidden costs with $0 premium for the employee.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, and wellness programs.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Generous paid time off (accrue up to 138 hours in first year, increasing annually to 258 hours in year 10).
• Company-paid Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Life insurance (2x annual salary) and AD&D coverage.