Payroll & Leave Specialist

Samson, the worldwide leader in high performance cordage, is seeking a Payroll & Leave Specialist who will be responsible for administering accurate and timely payroll, both domestic and international, and coordinating employee leave programs for Samson. This role serves as a key resource for employees and managers on payroll, timekeeping, and leave‑related questions while ensuring processes are administered consistently and in accordance with company policies and applicable federal, state, and local requirements.

The Payroll & Leave Specialist partners closely with Human Resources, Finance, managers, and employees to maintain accurate records, resolve issues, support compliance, and provide a positive employee experience while practicing a high level of business ethics and professionalism and adhering to safety and quality guidelines in support of Samson strategy and core values.

• An experienced payroll professional with at least 5 years of payroll experience using an HRIS system.
• Knowledgeable in time and attendance practices, with an understanding of federal and state wage and hour, employment laws.
• Experienced in leave of absence management, with at least 2 years of experience supporting employees and managers through the leave process.
• Detail‑oriented, with a strong understanding of the importance of accuracy in the role.
• Trusted to deal appropriately with confidential and highly sensitive information, with a genuine interest and respect for people and their concerns.
• A relationship builder who works effectively with individuals at all levels of the organization and with a diverse group of individuals.
• A clear and concise communicator, both orally and in writing, with strong attention to detail.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, with the ability to quickly learn new programs.
• Knowledgeable in federal and state wage and hour, employment laws, and leaves.
• Highly organized, with the ability to set priorities, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced, changing environment.
• A qualitative and analytical thinker who provides recommendations based on data.
• Committed to delivering excellent customer service to both customers and colleagues.

• Process and audit multi-location and international payroll, update and maintain accurate data and employee records using an HRIS system, including new hires, terminations, and employment changes, while ensuring data integrity.
• Create and maintain manual and electronic HR files and provide necessary payroll reporting to Finance.
• Track, report, and audit time and attendance on a weekly basis to ensure accuracy and compliance with wage and hour laws. Partner with supervisors and/or managers to verify documentation related to time and attendance.
• Review quarterly and annual federal and state tax filings and reconcile year‑end processes such as W-2 and 1095-C production.
• Work with third‑party administrators and owners to ensure accurate 401(k) administration.
• Manage leaves of absence and ensure compliance with pertinent regulations and Samson policies. Serve as the main contact with the leave of absence vendor, employees, and managers.
• Assist staff with Time & Attendance tracking related to leaves and work with the HR Manager and Director on non‑standard leaves, special circumstances, ADA accommodations requested, and non‑FMLA leaves that are not approved.
• Coordinate with the Safety Department on workers’ compensation leaves and work with employees who file short‑and long‑term disability claims.
• Participate in annual audits in conjunction with Finance and our owners as requested.
• Support the HR team in conducting self‑audits to ensure compliance with IRS, IRC, DOL, FMLA, FLSA, ADA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and other regulations pertinent to benefits, leaves, and compensation.
• Under general supervision, assist with projects related to the development and implementation of strategy, communications, and process improvement for HR initiatives.
• Provide backup and support for benefits administration as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Required:
  
  High school diploma or equivalent.
• Desired:
  Associate or bachelor's degree…