Position Title: Payroll & Benefits Specialist
Employment Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Reports To: Director of People and Engagement
Location: Shepherd’s House Ministries – Bend (Hybrid eligible: combination of in-office and remote work)
Position Summary:
The Payroll & Benefits Specialist plays a vital role on the People Team by stewarding payroll and benefits administration for Shepherd’s House Ministries, a nonprofit with over 100 employees. This role requires strong attention to detail, accuracy, and problem-solving skills, while also providing caring and clear guidance to staff and supervisors. The Specialist must be comfortable teaching and supporting a diverse group of employees through processes that may be new or complex, ensuring every interaction reflects SHM’s mission and trauma-informed values.
Accountability Statement:
This position is accountable for accurately processing payroll, administering employee benefits, and maintaining compliance with applicable labor laws and organizational policies. The Payroll & Benefits Specialist ensures that all payroll and benefits processes are completed with efficiency, clarity, and confidentiality, supporting the mission, vision, and values of Shepherd’s House Ministries.
Work Environment:
This role requires a high level of confidentiality and accuracy. The Payroll & Benefits Specialist will regularly handle sensitive employee and organizational financial information. Success requires strong attention to detail, the ability to problem-solve under deadlines, and a professional, service-oriented approach. This position must support staff and supervisors in a caring, compassionate, and trauma-informed manner, providing clarity and dignity in every interaction.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Work (20%)
- Support the Director of People and Engagement in aligning payroll and benefits processes with SHM’s mission, vision, and values
- Identify opportunities to improve payroll and benefits workflows for efficiency and employee experience
- Assist in educating staff about available benefits and resources
Tactical Work (80%)
- Process biweekly payroll with accuracy and timeliness, ensuring compliance with wage and hour laws
- Audit time and attendance records, review timecards for errors, and follow up with staff and supervisors to resolve discrepancies promptly
- Administer employee benefits including health, dental, vision, retirement, and supplemental insurance plans
- Support open enrollment and benefits communication across all campuses
- Maintain accurate and confidential payroll and benefits records in HRIS and related systems
- Respond promptly to employee payroll and benefits questions, escalating issues to the Director as needed
- Coordinate with benefit vendors and brokers to resolve employee concerns and maintain compliance
- Assist with leave tracking, Paid Leave Oregon, and ADA/FMLA documentation as assigned
Physical Requirements:
- Primarily sitting or standing at a desk for extended periods while performing administrative tasks
- Occasional travel to multiple SHM locations for staff meetings, trainings, or employee support needs
- Ability to communicate effectively with employees, supervisors, directors, vendors, and benefits providers with professionalism, care, and clarity
Qualifications:
- 2+ years of experience in payroll, benefits administration, or related HR/finance support role
- Knowledge of Oregon labor law, wage and hour rules, and benefits regulations preferred
- Experience with payroll/HRIS systems (ADP preferred)
- Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to meet deadlines
- Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and SHM’s mission and values
- Ability to work independently in a hybrid environment while maintaining clear communication with the People Team
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
