People Operations HR Generalist (Part Time - Payroll & Benefits Focus)

We are looking for temporary coverage for People Operations Manager duties during a maternity leave. This is a part-time, contract role with a strong emphasis on payroll and benefits administration, along with supporting general People Operations responsibilities.The role is expected to begin in July, with a gradual onboarding period. The individual in this role must be highly independent, self-directed, and resourceful, as day-to-day guidance will be limited. Success in this role requires a high-trust approach, a can-do, get-it-done mindset, comfort making informed decisions, and a strong ability to proactively identify solutions. Exceptional attention to detail and absolute precision with numbers and math is required for success in this role.During bi-weekly payroll weeks, hours may increase to approximately ~30 hours, with lighter weeks averaging ~10 hours, for an overall estimated average of ~20 hours per week.Compensation: $25–$30 per hourThe hourly rate for this role will be based on qualifications, experience, market data, and internal equity. Actual pay may vary due to factors such as skills, education, and performance. Pay is determined transparently, using market benchmarks and ensuring internal equity. Role is hybrid, requiring some onsite days (preferred) and flexibility to be remote at times. Job ResponsibilitiesPayroll Administration (Primary Focus)Independently administer bi-weekly payroll processing for multiple company groups, including Monday/Tuesday payroll runs, payroll reminder communications, and holiday schedule notifications, etc.Research, troubleshoot, and resolve payroll issues, escalating high-risk matters as neededProcess manual payroll adjustments, including off-cycle corrections, new hire anomalies, termination management, timecard error reconciliation, etc.Calculate and administer monthly production bonuses and other specialized payroll items (e.g., Critical Staffing Incentives, Spot Awards)Manage wage garnishments and levies, including required manual processing each pay period and timely remittance of paymentsOversee 401(k) contributions and deposits on a bi-weekly basisReview and approve all expense reports for accuracy, legitimacy, and policy compliance; proactively follow up to resolve discrepancies and escalate as necessary.When applicable, use AI tools to validate calculations, draft payroll communications, identify errors, and improve payroll documentation and workflowsBenefits Administration & Billing (Primary Focus)Lead and independently manage benefits administration activities, prioritizing accuracy, timeliness, and complianceSupport preparation for benefits renewal and discussions.Administer and reconcile monthly benefits billing for Accounting, including list-bill and self-bill processes. This work requires exceptional accuracy, strong Excel skills, and high attention to detail.Manage Minnesota Paid Family Leave (MNPFL) and Disability self-billing based on monthly earned wages, including reconciliation of multiple invoices and coordination with accountingSupport Team Member benefits enrollments, changes, and life events, ensuring accuracy without close supervisionIdentify opportunities to simplify, automate, or document benefits processes using AI toolsGeneral People Operations (HR) SupportEnsure accurate new hire setup in Paylocity, including compensation, PTO and benefit enrollmentsDeliver new hire benefits onboarding sessionsProactively flag and manage new hire start dates and termination dates to prevent payroll or benefits errorsSupport the administration of leave programs (FMLA, LOA, MNPFL) with strong documentationManage salary team member unemployment claims, including agency notices, hearing requests, and responsesRespond to employment verification requests accurately and efficientlyAssist with administrative elements of PIPs, Team Member exits, and transitions with strong documentation, discretion and follow-throughSupport the company’s Team Member Anniversary Recognition platform through funding coordination and administrative supportSpecific Measures of SuccessPayroll is processed accurately and on time for every pay cycle, with minimal corrections or downstream impactsBenefits billing is reconciled monthly with no late payments, penalties, or unresolved discrepanciesPayroll, benefits, and compliance issues are identified and resolved proactivelyAI tools are actively leveraged to reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, and enhance documentationNew hire, termination, and leave actions are reflected correctly across systems with no preventable errorsKey processes are improved, clarified, or documented during the contract period, leaving operations stronger than at startJob CompetenciesPayroll & Benefits Mastery – Demonstrated expertise managing payroll and benefits independentlyExceptional Attention to Detail – Highly accurate in deadline-driven, compliance-oriented environmentsIndependence & Ownership – Self-starting, resourceful, and comfortable operating with limited directionAI Fluency & Innovation – Actively uses AI to improve work quality, efficiency, and process designProblem Solving & Judgment – Assesses risk, identifies solutions, and takes initiative to resolve issuesExecution Mindset – Brings a “figure it out and get it done” approach to workEducation & ExperienceMinimum 3 years of experience in a Human Resources role requiredPaylocity HRIS experience requiredHands-on, end-to-end payroll ownership experience requiredBenefits administration and billing experience preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent requiredDegree or certification in Human Resources preferredSkills & CapabilitiesMeticulous attention to detail with a high level of organizationAble to independently manage recurring processes and deadlinesStrong interest in leveraging AI tools to enhance workflows, accuracy, and productivityPhysical Requirements:Ability to sit for extended periods, with occasional standing or walking Perform repetitive hand and finger movements (e.g., typing, mouse use) Communicate effectively in person, by phone, and through virtual meetings Occasionally bend, reach, or stoop to access files or office equipment Lift and carry light items, generally up to 10–15 pounds Maintain focus and attention in a standard office environmentPURIS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are welcome, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The hiring process includes successfully completing a background check, and drug screen. We E-verify all new hires. INTEGRITY | LEADERSHIP | OPENNESS | GLOBAL VISION | ADAPTABILITY | PARTNERSHIP Compensation details: 25-30 Hourly Wage