Payroll and Benefits Specialist

Job Title: Payroll and Benefits Specialist

Location: Webb School of Knoxville, Knoxville, TN

Position Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Reports to: Chief Financial Officer

About Us:

Webb School of Knoxville is a vibrant independent PreK-12 school committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and personal growth. Our Mission is to inspire and nurture the full potential of each individual and to prepare our students to serve as leaders of character in tomorrow’s world.

Position Summary

The Payroll and Benefits Specialist supports the financial operations of the school by administering payroll and employee benefit programs with accuracy, integrity, and timeliness. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, this role ensures compliance with applicable laws and school policies, contributes to the operational effectiveness of the business office, and enhances the employee experience. The ideal candidate will bring strong organizational skills and attention to detail, and human resources knowledge or relevant professional certifications are a plus.

Payroll Administration

• Process monthly and bi-weekly payroll for faculty and staff in accordance with school policies and applicable federal and state regulations
• Maintain accurate payroll records, including compensation, deductions, taxes, garnishments, and leave balances
• Reconcile payroll reports and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries with professionalism and discretion
• Ensure compliance with wage and hour laws, tax filings, and reporting requirements
• Coordinate year-end payroll processes, including W-2 preparation and audit support

Benefits Administration

• Administer employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans, and voluntary benefits
• Manage benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations within benefits and payroll systems
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee benefit questions, providing clear guidance and support
• Coordinate with the CFO and Controller, annual open enrollment, including employee communications, data verification, and vendor collaboration
• Reconcile benefits invoices and ensure accurate payroll deductions
• Prepare monthly journal entries for payroll and benefits

Compliance and Recordkeeping

• Maintain confidential employee payroll and benefits records in compliance with applicable laws and school policies
• Support compliance with ERISA, COBRA, ACA, and other payroll- and benefits-related regulations
• Prepare documentation and reports for internal review and external audits as needed

Operational Support

• Collaborate with the Chief Financial Officer and Controller to ensure payroll and benefits accuracy and efficiency
• Assist with onboarding and offboarding processes related to payroll and benefits
• Recommend and support improvements to payroll and benefits systems, processes, and controls
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

· Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience

· Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in payroll administration, benefits administration, or a related business office function

· Demonstrated experience processing payroll and maintaining payroll records with a payroll provider such as ADP or a similar payroll system

· Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, including the ability to work with formulas, data reconciliation, and payroll-related reporting

· Knowledge of payroll tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and payroll compliance requirements

· Ability to maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive employee information

· High level of accuracy and attention to detail with strong organizational and time management skills

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a strong service-oriented approach to supporting employees

What We Offer

· A collaborative and innovative work environment

· Opportunities for professional growth and development

· Competitive salary and benefits package

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Jennifer Cookston at jcookston@webbschool.org by March 31st, 2026.

Webb School of Knoxville is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.

Pay: $62,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person