Manager, Payroll and Benefits

Manager, Payroll and Benefits

Full-time FAS staff

Washington, DC

Why FAS?

Does FAS sound like an organization that you would be energized to join? Is it aligned to your values?

The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) takes quite seriously our role as a beacon and voice for the science community.

FAS has a rich history: after the devastating bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, a group of atomic researchers – deeply concerned about the use of science for malice – created an organization committed to using science and technology to benefit humanity.

The group they created – the Federation of Atomic Scientists – soon became the Federation of American Scientists in recognition of the hundreds of scientists across diverse disciplines who joined together to speak with one voice for the betterment of the world.

Today, we are a group of entrepreneurial, intrepid changemakers, forging a better future for all through the nexus of science, technology and talent. We value equity, inclusion, and transparency. As a collective, we are building an organization focused on being impact-driven, customer-focused, and growth-oriented as a force for good in the world.

Skills and Expertise: Must Haves

What skills do you need to show proficiency (or higher) in order to be a strong candidate?

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, Finance or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in benefits and payroll administration
• Strong understanding of employee benefits programs and payroll processes
• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills
• Previous experience with HRIS software is highly desirable
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective working relationships at all levels across the organization
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage sensitive and confidential information
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills
• Strong organizational, analytical and problem-solving abilities

Highly Preferred:

• Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) or similar certification
• Experience working in a non-profit organization

To Sum It Up…

What’s the “elevator pitch” for the role?

The Federation of American Scientists is searching for a Benefits & Payroll Manager to join our People & Culture team and play a key role in supporting our employees and ensuring financial accuracy behind the scenes.

In this position, you'll handle benefits administration and reconciliation, contribute to a broad range of administrative and payroll tasks that keep our operations running smoothly. This position plays a vital role in ensuring our team is supported through accurate, compliant, administration of pay and benefits programs.This role combines technical expertise with a people-first approach, ensuring employees are paid correctly, benefits are administered smoothly, and HR policies align with organizational values and legal standards.

This position partners closely with Finance, People & Culture, and external vendors to manage systems, streamline processes, and enhance the employee experience across the organization.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment and is comfortable managing confidential information with integrity and precision.

At the Federation of American Scientists, we believe in embracing a growth oriented and entrepreneurial mindset to drive impact for our colleagues, our customers and the world. The Benefits & Payroll Manager Specialist will report to the Director of People & Culture.

What you'll do: (Core responsibilities)

Benefits & Payroll Administration

• Administer and support employee benefits programs (health, retirement, leave, and related plans), including open enrollment and life event changes
• Serve as a primary point of contact for employee questions related to payroll and benefits, ensuring a high-quality employee experience
• Own and process semi-monthly payroll, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
• Maintain payroll records, including deductions, tax withholdings, and adjustments (e.g., retro pay, off-cycle payments)
• Reconcile payroll and benefits accounts, including invoices, deductions, and vendor reporting; partner with Finance on audits and reporting
• Manage relationships with payroll and benefits vendors to ensure accurate processing, issue resolution, and timely tax filings
  Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations (FLSA, IRS, ACA, ERISA, COBRA, etc.)
• Contribute to process improvements and support broader HR operations and employee lifecycle activities as needed

HR Generalist Support

• Administer and support employee benefits programs (health, retirement, leave, and related plans), including open enrollment and life event changes
• Support onboarding and offboarding processes related to payroll, benefits, and HR systems
• Assist with HRIS data management and ensure data accuracy across systems
• Provide general HR support across the employee lifecycle, including responding to employee inquiries and supporting People & Culture initiatives
• Contribute to process improvements and documentation to enhance efficiency and employee experience
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support organizational needs and special projects

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure all payroll and benefits programs comply with applicable laws (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, etc.)
• Maintain accurate payroll and benefits records, including tax withholdings and deductions
• Support audits and reporting requirements in partnership with Finance and external partners
• Prepare and file required reports such as ACA filings, 403(b) or 401(k) contributions, and benefits audits.
• Assist in maintaining and updating payroll and benefits-related policies and procedures

Work Environment
This position will be based in Washington DC and will operate as a hybrid role, meaning that both remote and in-person work can be accommodated, generally two to three days per week on-site, and two to three days per week remote.

Salary Range

$70,000-$82,000

Hiring Statement

Don’t check off every box? Apply anyway! Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every listed qualification. At FAS we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and developing new voices. If you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway – you might just be the right candidate.

The Federation of American Scientists is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. The Federation of American Scientists prohibits discriminating against employees and job applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose the compensation of the employee or applicant or another employee or applicant. Employment is contingent on successful verification of eligibility to work in the United States.

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