Human Resources Specialist - Payroll and Benefits
Apply NowCompany: Masse
Location: Boston, MA 02115
Description:
OFFICE of the COMPTROLLER (CTR)
Human Resources Specialist - Payroll and Benefits
FY25 - 025
About the Office of the Comptroller
The Office of the Comptroller oversees the Commonwealth's financial systems, promoting integrity, mitigating risk, and providing accurate reporting and promoting transparency to illustrate the financial health of Massachusetts. The Office is an independent and non-partisan department of the Commonwealth.
As stewards of the public trust, we aspire to inspire confidence by maintaining our core principles: clarity, integrity, and accountability.
The powers and obligations of the Office of the Comptroller are generally dictated by M.G.L. c. 7A.
Position Summary
The Office of the Comptroller's (CTR) Human Resources team (HR) is part of the Executive and Administration team. Supporting CTR's principles and values, the HR team aims to provide superior customer service to support and drive CTR goals and priorities. The HR team works as strategic business partners by providing effective solutions that support and optimize the operating principles of the agency.
Reporting to the Chief Human Resources Officer, the HR Specialist- Payroll and Benefits works independently and with the CTR HR Team. The HR Specialist's primary focus is to coordinate all aspects of CTR's payroll, benefits, personnel actions, reporting, and other related functions within HR Operations. The HR Specialist will serve as the point person for all payroll and benefits activities which includes but is not limited to time and attendance, all aspects of payroll processing, benefits administration, personnel actions, maintenance of official personnel files and records, and overall administration of CTR HR policies and procedures.
This position works with a customer focused mindset and is responsible for aiding agency personnel on all aspects regarding benefits and payroll inquiries, and coordination with partner agencies and third-party administrators. This position oversees all agency functions of the Human Resources Compensation Management System (HR/CMS). In addition to system processing, the HR Specialist oversees agency payroll process by developing and analyzing payroll and benefits procedures, reviewing, and auditing payroll data.
Specific Duties
The specific duties of this position include but are not limited to the following:
Process, run, and reconcile biweekly payroll and benefits for all employees; correct payroll rejects and enter payroll refunds
Process all personnel transactions in HR/CMS to reflect changes as instructed, including: new hires, terminations, transfers, tax updates, general deductions, pay adjustments, garnishments, direct deposits, schedule changes, benefits, , state transfers, promotions, re-allocations of funding, title changes, etc.
Ensure salary increases are implemented correctly including union/ contract step increases
Process all required employee payments upon separation
Review and process expense reimbursements
Research and rectify pay discrepancies
Review time/ attendance entries; research time discrepancies for reconciling
Verify any funding changes for each pay period, monitor and update LCM activity as needed
Work closely with budget staff to reconcile payroll and budget allocation.
Process labor allocations as requested
Process, liaise and serve as agency coordinator for Group Insurance Commission (GIC) annual enrollment, life changes and for on and off Boarding ensuring employee health, dental, and vision coverage is maintained in the benefits system MAGIC
Process, liaise and serve as agency coordinator for third party benefit administrators on flexible spending accounts such as Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) and Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP).
Process, liaise, and serve as agency coordinator for supplemental benefit programs such as deferred compensation, commuter benefits, and other employee benefits.
Process, coordinate, and serve as primary contact for the State Board of Retirement on matters affecting CTR employee retirement, buyback issues, and completion of salary requests for perspective retirees
Update data in systems and employee files that occur during employment lifecycle around with personal information, family situation, dependents, positions, bargaining units and/or job status.
Prepare ad hoc reports for management as well as payroll reports utilizing CIW, Mobius and MAGIC.
Extract data reports via the warehouse; run various reports to support the organization
Generate weekly, monthly, quarterly and year end reports relating to payroll data and leave balances
Conducts employee orientation and employee offboarding for all new hires, transfers, promotions, and departing employees, presenting important payroll and benefit information.
Maintain personnel files, and emergency database for CTR employees and contractors, and contingent workers.
Assist CTR employees and managers with various HR related questions.
Initial point of contact for employee and manager questions or assistance in payroll and benefits functional areas.
Demonstrate professionalism , confidentiality, and collaboration across all facets of the Office of Comptroller. Comply with organizational standards including mandatory training, safety and security, and all workplace policies and procedures.
Participate in cross training within the HR Team to provide backup support as requested.
Bargaining Unit / Salary Range NAGE UNIT 6 / G ra de :15 $79,574.90 - $115,828.86
Pursuant to the Unit 6 C oll ec t i v e B a r g a in i n g A g r e e m e nt b e tw ee n the Commonw ea lth of M a ss ac hus e tts a nd the N a tio n a l Asso c i a tion of G ov er nm e nt Empl o y e e s, the listed salary range is based upon a series of steps. Any potential offer is determined based upon an analysis of the minimum entrance requirements, the candidate's relevant work experience, and educational achievement level.
Comprehensive Benefits Package:
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
CTR is pleased to offer a comprehensive benefits package to its employees. The specific components and eligibility may vary based upon position classification, hours worked per week and other variables. Therefore, specific benefits for this position may be discussed as part of the interview and offer process.
The overall benefits available include paid vacation, sick and personal leave time, health, dental and vision insurance through the Commonwealth's Group Insurance, optional pre-tax Health Savings Account plans, and transit commuter programs.
CTR employees also participate in the Commonwealth's State Retirement Plan, which can become a defined benefit plan for those that both vest and subsequently retire from State service. Follow this link for additional retirement information: http://www.mass.gov/treasury/retirement/state-board-of-retire/
In addition, CTR provides employees the opportunity to elect life insurance, long term disability insurance, deferred compensation savings, tuition remission, pre-tax commuter account plans, along with other programs. This position may be eligible for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program administered by the Federal Government.
CTR Hybrid-Work Model
CTR operates under a Hybrid work model. Under this policy, employees are currently required to work a minimum of four business days per month (two set by management and two set by the employee) on-site at CTR's Boston office and may work remotely the remainder of the time at a location approved by their supervisor, so long as they comply with the requirements of the telework policy. Under this policy, all employees must be able to report to the Boston office with little or no notice, even including the same workday should an exigent circumstance arise. Therefore, a reasonable proximity to the office is necessary. CTR does not reimburse for employees to travel to the office.
On-site work is an essential function of this position.
In addition, the successful candidate may be required to work primarily on site in Boston during the initial training and orientation period and/or for certain positions a primarily on-site role may be necessary.
Commitment to Diversity:
CTR is committed to building a diverse staff at all levels across its entire agency.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.
CTR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Process:
The Office of the Comptroller encourages interested candidates that meet the minimum entrance requirements and qualifications to apply for this position.
Interested candidates must submit their materials electronically, by E-mail no later than 5:00 pm, on April 28, 2025.
Submissions should include the following :
a cover letter; and
resume.
Candidates chosen to advance to a second-round interview will also be required to submit:
three business writing samples; and
three professional references.
Please include position title and posting number (FY25-025) in the subject line of your submission. Your application package should be submitted to:
CTR-HR@mass.gov
Late submissions may be considered solely at the discretion of CTR.
Required Background Check - Including Tax Compliance:
CTR requires a background check on all prospective employees as a condition of employment.
Candidates should know that the background check is not initiated until:
A candidate is invited to a second or subsequent interview and The candidate has signed the Background Check Authorization Form and related releases.
This background check includes:
o a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check,
o Commonwealth Department of Revenue state tax compliance.
Candidates with advanced degrees and professional licenses may have these credentials verified.
Individuals other than those references provided by a candidate may be contacted in the course of completing a full background and qualification check.
Further Information:
Please visit https://www.macomptroller.org for more information about the Office of the Comptroller.
Qualifications:
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Collective Bargaining Agreements or experience dealing with union contracts and employees in a unionized environment.
Experience working in a unionized environment, with a strong understanding of collective bargaining agreements, and a proven ability to interpret, analyze, and apply contract provisions. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and/or HRCI Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
Strong knowledge of the state classification system.
Experience serving as the primary contact with third-party administrators
Prior human resources professional experience in government
Prior supervision or lead experience through work assignments, guidance, and/or training
Strong proficiency with the Commonwealth's HR/CMS, or other Human Resources Compensation Systems
Prior experience with the Commonwealth's Information data Warehouse (CIW) and the ability to create queries and produce reports
Familiarity with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS, particularly with onboarding features.)
Advanced computer system skills including Microsoft Office 365 suite, SharePoint, Teams, DocuSign, Adobe Sign and other applications.
Required Qualifications
Minimum two years of payroll lead or supervisory experience including experience within a complex organization.
Demonstrated experience with enterprise-wide HRIS/Payroll system and financial system.
Strong understanding of HR processes and data as well as analytical, problem solving, and conceptual skills
Strong quantitative and financial analysis skills, and the ability to follow through on projects
Strong analytical skills to evaluate and resolve issues within the payroll function.
Knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures of payroll administration; federal, state, and local procedures and laws/regulations pertaining to payroll systems and taxes; and payroll reporting procedures. Experience working for a complex public sector/government organization.
Attention to detail and strong customer orientation
Excellent teamwork, interpersonal, and verbal/written communication skills
Experience with HR operational oversight
Ability to maintain confidentiality with high degree of professionalism and sensitivity
Strong written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated ability to produce documentation and make recommendations
Ability to work independently and balance tasks and projects according to varying degrees of urgency and importance
Ability to facilitate meetings, create and deliver presentations, and conduct training classes Knowledge of and experience with spreadsheet and database tools
Minimum Entrance Requirements :
Applicants must have at least (A) four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time professional experience in personnel work, the major duties of which includes classification, staffing, job analysis and/or job evaluation, (B) of which at least two years must have been in a professional capacity, and (C) of which at least one year must have been in a supervisory, administrative, or managerial capacity; or (D) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below:
Substitutions:
I. An Associate's degree may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required (A) experience*.
II. Bachelor's degree or higher may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience*.
III. A Graduate degree with a major in Personnel Management, Personnel Administration or Public Administration may be substituted for the required (A) experience*.
*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
NOTE: No substitution will be allowed for the required (B) or (C) experience
Human Resources Specialist - Payroll and Benefits
FY25 - 025
About the Office of the Comptroller
The Office of the Comptroller oversees the Commonwealth's financial systems, promoting integrity, mitigating risk, and providing accurate reporting and promoting transparency to illustrate the financial health of Massachusetts. The Office is an independent and non-partisan department of the Commonwealth.
As stewards of the public trust, we aspire to inspire confidence by maintaining our core principles: clarity, integrity, and accountability.
The powers and obligations of the Office of the Comptroller are generally dictated by M.G.L. c. 7A.
Position Summary
The Office of the Comptroller's (CTR) Human Resources team (HR) is part of the Executive and Administration team. Supporting CTR's principles and values, the HR team aims to provide superior customer service to support and drive CTR goals and priorities. The HR team works as strategic business partners by providing effective solutions that support and optimize the operating principles of the agency.
Reporting to the Chief Human Resources Officer, the HR Specialist- Payroll and Benefits works independently and with the CTR HR Team. The HR Specialist's primary focus is to coordinate all aspects of CTR's payroll, benefits, personnel actions, reporting, and other related functions within HR Operations. The HR Specialist will serve as the point person for all payroll and benefits activities which includes but is not limited to time and attendance, all aspects of payroll processing, benefits administration, personnel actions, maintenance of official personnel files and records, and overall administration of CTR HR policies and procedures.
This position works with a customer focused mindset and is responsible for aiding agency personnel on all aspects regarding benefits and payroll inquiries, and coordination with partner agencies and third-party administrators. This position oversees all agency functions of the Human Resources Compensation Management System (HR/CMS). In addition to system processing, the HR Specialist oversees agency payroll process by developing and analyzing payroll and benefits procedures, reviewing, and auditing payroll data.
Specific Duties
The specific duties of this position include but are not limited to the following:
Process, run, and reconcile biweekly payroll and benefits for all employees; correct payroll rejects and enter payroll refunds
Process all personnel transactions in HR/CMS to reflect changes as instructed, including: new hires, terminations, transfers, tax updates, general deductions, pay adjustments, garnishments, direct deposits, schedule changes, benefits, , state transfers, promotions, re-allocations of funding, title changes, etc.
Ensure salary increases are implemented correctly including union/ contract step increases
Process all required employee payments upon separation
Review and process expense reimbursements
Research and rectify pay discrepancies
Review time/ attendance entries; research time discrepancies for reconciling
Verify any funding changes for each pay period, monitor and update LCM activity as needed
Work closely with budget staff to reconcile payroll and budget allocation.
Process labor allocations as requested
Process, liaise and serve as agency coordinator for Group Insurance Commission (GIC) annual enrollment, life changes and for on and off Boarding ensuring employee health, dental, and vision coverage is maintained in the benefits system MAGIC
Process, liaise and serve as agency coordinator for third party benefit administrators on flexible spending accounts such as Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) and Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP).
Process, liaise, and serve as agency coordinator for supplemental benefit programs such as deferred compensation, commuter benefits, and other employee benefits.
Process, coordinate, and serve as primary contact for the State Board of Retirement on matters affecting CTR employee retirement, buyback issues, and completion of salary requests for perspective retirees
Update data in systems and employee files that occur during employment lifecycle around with personal information, family situation, dependents, positions, bargaining units and/or job status.
Prepare ad hoc reports for management as well as payroll reports utilizing CIW, Mobius and MAGIC.
Extract data reports via the warehouse; run various reports to support the organization
Generate weekly, monthly, quarterly and year end reports relating to payroll data and leave balances
Conducts employee orientation and employee offboarding for all new hires, transfers, promotions, and departing employees, presenting important payroll and benefit information.
Maintain personnel files, and emergency database for CTR employees and contractors, and contingent workers.
Assist CTR employees and managers with various HR related questions.
Initial point of contact for employee and manager questions or assistance in payroll and benefits functional areas.
Demonstrate professionalism , confidentiality, and collaboration across all facets of the Office of Comptroller. Comply with organizational standards including mandatory training, safety and security, and all workplace policies and procedures.
Participate in cross training within the HR Team to provide backup support as requested.
Bargaining Unit / Salary Range NAGE UNIT 6 / G ra de :15 $79,574.90 - $115,828.86
Pursuant to the Unit 6 C oll ec t i v e B a r g a in i n g A g r e e m e nt b e tw ee n the Commonw ea lth of M a ss ac hus e tts a nd the N a tio n a l Asso c i a tion of G ov er nm e nt Empl o y e e s, the listed salary range is based upon a series of steps. Any potential offer is determined based upon an analysis of the minimum entrance requirements, the candidate's relevant work experience, and educational achievement level.
Comprehensive Benefits Package:
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
CTR is pleased to offer a comprehensive benefits package to its employees. The specific components and eligibility may vary based upon position classification, hours worked per week and other variables. Therefore, specific benefits for this position may be discussed as part of the interview and offer process.
The overall benefits available include paid vacation, sick and personal leave time, health, dental and vision insurance through the Commonwealth's Group Insurance, optional pre-tax Health Savings Account plans, and transit commuter programs.
CTR employees also participate in the Commonwealth's State Retirement Plan, which can become a defined benefit plan for those that both vest and subsequently retire from State service. Follow this link for additional retirement information: http://www.mass.gov/treasury/retirement/state-board-of-retire/
In addition, CTR provides employees the opportunity to elect life insurance, long term disability insurance, deferred compensation savings, tuition remission, pre-tax commuter account plans, along with other programs. This position may be eligible for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program administered by the Federal Government.
CTR Hybrid-Work Model
CTR operates under a Hybrid work model. Under this policy, employees are currently required to work a minimum of four business days per month (two set by management and two set by the employee) on-site at CTR's Boston office and may work remotely the remainder of the time at a location approved by their supervisor, so long as they comply with the requirements of the telework policy. Under this policy, all employees must be able to report to the Boston office with little or no notice, even including the same workday should an exigent circumstance arise. Therefore, a reasonable proximity to the office is necessary. CTR does not reimburse for employees to travel to the office.
On-site work is an essential function of this position.
In addition, the successful candidate may be required to work primarily on site in Boston during the initial training and orientation period and/or for certain positions a primarily on-site role may be necessary.
Commitment to Diversity:
CTR is committed to building a diverse staff at all levels across its entire agency.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.
CTR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Process:
The Office of the Comptroller encourages interested candidates that meet the minimum entrance requirements and qualifications to apply for this position.
Interested candidates must submit their materials electronically, by E-mail no later than 5:00 pm, on April 28, 2025.
Submissions should include the following :
a cover letter; and
resume.
Candidates chosen to advance to a second-round interview will also be required to submit:
three business writing samples; and
three professional references.
Please include position title and posting number (FY25-025) in the subject line of your submission. Your application package should be submitted to:
CTR-HR@mass.gov
Late submissions may be considered solely at the discretion of CTR.
Required Background Check - Including Tax Compliance:
CTR requires a background check on all prospective employees as a condition of employment.
Candidates should know that the background check is not initiated until:
This background check includes:
o a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check,
o Commonwealth Department of Revenue state tax compliance.
Candidates with advanced degrees and professional licenses may have these credentials verified.
Individuals other than those references provided by a candidate may be contacted in the course of completing a full background and qualification check.
Further Information:
Please visit https://www.macomptroller.org for more information about the Office of the Comptroller.
Qualifications:
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Demonstrated in-depth knowledge and application of benefits and pension programs.
- Thorough knowledge of human resources principles and practices and solid knowledge of the governing laws, rules, and regulations.
- Demonstrated experienced adhering to strict guidelines within a time sensitive environment.
- Demonstrated proficiency in reporting and data warehousing abilities using tools such as SQL, PeopleSoft, SSTA systems, and other reporting tools.
- Excellent oral communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to write clearly and concisely, express thoughts clearly and develop ideas in a logical sequence, ability to assemble items of information in accordance with established procedures.
- Demonstrated strong organizational skills that reflect the ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with excellent attention to detail.
- Demonstrated professionalism and positive customer service approach to problem solving.
- Ability to analyze data to draw conclusions; troubleshoot scenarios and make appropriate recommendations.
- Ability to contribute effectively to the overall CTR work environment in a positive, respectful, and cooperative fashion.
- In depth knowledge and adherence to the techniques used in evaluating measures and reporting compliance to policies and regulations.
- Ability to collaborate in a team-based environment and interact effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, handle and follow through on competing assignments, and meet deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Collective Bargaining Agreements or experience dealing with union contracts and employees in a unionized environment.
Experience working in a unionized environment, with a strong understanding of collective bargaining agreements, and a proven ability to interpret, analyze, and apply contract provisions. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and/or HRCI Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
Strong knowledge of the state classification system.
Experience serving as the primary contact with third-party administrators
Prior human resources professional experience in government
Prior supervision or lead experience through work assignments, guidance, and/or training
Strong proficiency with the Commonwealth's HR/CMS, or other Human Resources Compensation Systems
Prior experience with the Commonwealth's Information data Warehouse (CIW) and the ability to create queries and produce reports
Familiarity with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS, particularly with onboarding features.)
Advanced computer system skills including Microsoft Office 365 suite, SharePoint, Teams, DocuSign, Adobe Sign and other applications.
Required Qualifications
Minimum two years of payroll lead or supervisory experience including experience within a complex organization.
Demonstrated experience with enterprise-wide HRIS/Payroll system and financial system.
Strong understanding of HR processes and data as well as analytical, problem solving, and conceptual skills
Strong quantitative and financial analysis skills, and the ability to follow through on projects
Strong analytical skills to evaluate and resolve issues within the payroll function.
Knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures of payroll administration; federal, state, and local procedures and laws/regulations pertaining to payroll systems and taxes; and payroll reporting procedures. Experience working for a complex public sector/government organization.
Attention to detail and strong customer orientation
Excellent teamwork, interpersonal, and verbal/written communication skills
Experience with HR operational oversight
Ability to maintain confidentiality with high degree of professionalism and sensitivity
Strong written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated ability to produce documentation and make recommendations
Ability to work independently and balance tasks and projects according to varying degrees of urgency and importance
Ability to facilitate meetings, create and deliver presentations, and conduct training classes Knowledge of and experience with spreadsheet and database tools
Minimum Entrance Requirements :
Applicants must have at least (A) four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time professional experience in personnel work, the major duties of which includes classification, staffing, job analysis and/or job evaluation, (B) of which at least two years must have been in a professional capacity, and (C) of which at least one year must have been in a supervisory, administrative, or managerial capacity; or (D) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below:
Substitutions:
I. An Associate's degree may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required (A) experience*.
II. Bachelor's degree or higher may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience*.
III. A Graduate degree with a major in Personnel Management, Personnel Administration or Public Administration may be substituted for the required (A) experience*.
*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
NOTE: No substitution will be allowed for the required (B) or (C) experience