Payroll & Benefits Specialist

Location:

Northville MI

Reports To:

Director of HR

Employment Type:

Full-Time

About Us:

We are a fast-growing, multi-unit franchise ownership group operating over 30 Goldfish Swim School locations across the country. Our mission is to create safe, fun, and effective swim instruction for children, backed by a passionate team of professionals who value excellence, consistency, and community. As we continue to scale, we’re looking to strengthen our corporate support team to keep up with our growth—and that’s where you come in.

We are seeking an experienced Payroll & Benefits Specialist to join our corporate team. This person will be responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll across all franchise locations using Paychex Flex, managing related payroll reporting, and assisting in benefits administration. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, highly organized, and experienced in multi-state payroll processing with a working knowledge of HR/payroll compliance standards.

• Process bi-weekly payroll for 1,000 employees across 30 locations using Paychex Flex.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations.
• Review timesheets, PTO, bonuses, and deductions for accuracy.
• Maintain employee records and payroll data integrity.
• Reconcile payroll reports and general ledger entries as needed.
• Stay current on multi-state payroll laws and ensure compliance across all locations.
• Assist with audits and regulatory filings (e.g., W-2s, 941s, etc.).
• Create and maintain payroll SOPs to standardize processes.
• Assist with employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, 401(k), and other voluntary plans.
• Coordinate benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding benefits, payroll, and policies.
• Prepare payroll and headcount reports for finance and HR leadership.
• Identify trends or discrepancies and recommend process improvements.
• Partner with location managers to resolve payroll issues promptly.

Required:

• 3 years of payroll processing experience, including multi-location and multi-state environments.

Hands-on experience with Paychex Flex. Strong understanding of payroll regulations, taxes, and wage and hour laws. Experience handling confidential information with discretion. Proficient in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools.

• Experience in a franchise, hospitality, or multi-unit business environment.
• Familiarity with benefits administration and open enrollment processes.
• Knowledge of ACA, FMLA, COBRA, and other compliance regulations.

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities.
• A “roll up your sleeves” mentality—comfortable in a growing, fast-paced environment.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Supportive team culture within a mission-driven organization.
• The chance to make a meaningful impact at scale.

Goldfish Swim School