What are the responsibilities and job description for the Payroll and Benefits Specialist position at Akin (formerly Children's Home Society of Washington + Childhaven)?
At Akin, we believe our people are at the heart of everything we do. We’re looking for a detail-oriented and service-driven Payroll & Benefits Specialist to join our People & Culture team—someone who thrives on accuracy, enjoys solving problems, and is passionate about creating a seamless employee experience.
In this role, you’ll be a trusted expert supporting payroll, benefits, and leave programs that directly impact our employees’ well-being. If you enjoy working behind the scenes to make things run smoothly—and love partnering across teams to improve processes—this could be a great fit.
What You’ll Do
Payroll Excellence
- Process accurate, on-time bi-weekly payroll and maintain payroll records
- Perform audits, reconciliations, and reporting to ensure data integrity
- Manage garnishments, child support orders, and payroll inquiries
- Partner with HR and Finance and serve as liaison with UKG Payroll Services
Benefits Administration
- Oversee employee benefits programs including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and more
- Manage enrollments, life events, and vendor relationships
- Reconcile benefits data and invoices; support Open Enrollment
- Help enhance benefits programs and employee communications
Leave & Compliance
- Administer FMLA, state leave, ADA accommodations, and related programs
- Track leave usage and ensure compliance with regulations
- Support workers’ compensation claims and return-to-work programs
- Ensure compliance with ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, COBRA, and other regulations
What You Bring
- Strong knowledge of payroll and benefits administration
- Solid understanding of applicable laws and compliance requirements
- Exceptional attention to detail and analytical skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
- Strong communication and customer service mindset
- Proficiency in HRIS systems and Microsoft Office, especially Excel
Minimum Qualifications
- Associate degree in Business, HR, Accounting, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 3–5 years of experience in payroll, benefits, or HR administration
- Demonstrated experience using HRIS systems and Excel
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- HR or benefits certifications (PHR, SHRM-CP, CEBS, etc.)
- Experience with UKG or similar systems
Why Akin?
- Meaningful work that supports employees and communities
- Collaborative and mission-driven culture
- Flexible hybrid work environment (role-dependent)
- Opportunities to improve systems and make a real impact
Work Environment
This role operates in a professional office setting with a hybrid option depending on business needs. It requires extended computer use, attention to detail, and the ability to manage interruptions in a fast-paced environment.
If you’re someone who takes pride in accuracy, values confidentiality, and enjoys being a go-to resource for employees—we’d love to hear from you.
Compensation and Benefits:
We provide a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive pay, medical, dental and retirement benefits and paid time off. As required by various pay transparency laws, we share a competitive range of compensation for candidates hired into each position.
The target starting pay for this position is $73,000 - $81,000 per year, typically within the first half of the range. Actual offers will be based on individual qualifications relevant to the role and will not take an applicant’s pay history into account.
The range above allows our employees room for growth during their tenure in the position.
Salary : $73,000 - $81,000