Payroll & HRIS Specialist (Paylocity) — Part-Time, Remote, Temporary

Description:

MNS Engineers is seeking a Payroll & HRIS Specialist with extensive Paylocity experience to support the conversion of our payroll cycle and ensure compliance across all payroll and HR systems. This is a part-time, remote contract position (20–30 hours per week) expected to run through March 2026. The role will collaborate closely with our Controller, Accounting Manager, and HR team to facilitate a seamless transition from a semi-monthly to bi-weekly payroll cycle effective January 1, 2026.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the conversion of the payroll cycle in Paylocity from semi-monthly to bi-weekly, ensuring accurate configuration of all earnings and deduction codes (salary rates, stipends, 401k, union dues, benefits, etc.).
• Audit and verify all GL mappings and tax setups, ensuring appropriate state tax POAs and timely remittances.
• Partner with Paylocity to confirm compliance with all regulatory requirements related to the payroll cycle change.
• Ensure adherence to the Working Families Tax Cut Act (formerly OBBB), including qualified overtime pay calculations and W-2 reporting in 2025, and full compliance by 2026.
• Support the Controller in reviewing 2025 W-2s and executing off-cycle payroll runs (e.g., bonuses, PUCC).
• Assist the Accounting Manager with non-Caltrans certified payroll reports as needed.
• Manage setup and calculations for earnings and deductions within Paylocity.
• Review and approve group insurance invoices and COBRA payments before processing.
• Oversee the company 401(k) retirement plan and employee benefit programs such as FSA and HSA plans.
• Responsible in the remittance of employee payroll deductions for 401(k), FSA, HAS and court-ordered garnishments.
• Ensure accurate and timely remittance of garnishment payments to appropriate agencies.
• Support benefits administration and open enrollment activities.
• Oversee ACA reporting (Form 1095-C) and ensure year-end compliance.
• Maintain and configure time-off policies, holiday hours, compensation dashboards, and bonus/merit tracking.
• Manage leave of absence (LOA) processes and reporting.

Requirements:

• Minimum 2 years of direct Paylocity experience (payroll configuration, audits, compliance) required.
• 3–5 years of payroll and HR experience
• Strong understanding of payroll tax compliance and general ledger mapping.
• Experience with benefits administration, deductions, and ACA reporting.
• High attention to detail with the ability to audit, problem-solve, and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with experience working cross-functionally between HR and Accounting.