What are the responsibilities and job description for the Payroll/Onboarding Specialist position at Volvo Cars Arrowhead?
Description
The Payroll and Onboarding Specialist is responsible for coordinating all aspects of the new-hire experience—from background checks and drug screenings to system access and orientation—while also handling day-to-day payroll duties, benefits administration, and timekeeping oversight. This role requires strong communication skills, confidentiality, accuracy, and a solid understanding of payroll practices.
Key Responsibilities
Onboarding & Orientation
- Coordinate pre-employment steps, including background checks and drug screenings.
- Prepare and conduct new-hire orientation and ensure all required documents are completed.
- Maintain and audit employee files.
- Create system logins and accounts for new employees .
- Serve as the main point of contact for new employees during their first weeks.
Payroll & Timekeeping
- Process semiweekly/monthly commission payroll for all dealership departments.
- Audit timecards to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Maintain payroll records while ensuring confidentiality and data accuracy.
- Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
Benefits Administration
- Notify new hires of eligible benefit programs and assist with benefit questions.
- Support open enrollment, qualifying life events, and benefits changes.
- Maintain accurate benefit records and liaise with benefit providers when needed.
Other
- Manage mandatory trainings and ensure compliance.
- Assist with planning department and store events
- Collaborate with department managers to ensure accurate workforce information.
Qualifications
- Onboarding and payroll experience is required—automotive industry a plus.
- Knowledge of payroll systems, commission processing, and timekeeping software-Paylocity experience is a plus
- Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and confidentiality.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to multitask and manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office
What We Offer
- Health, dental, and vision benefits
- 401(k) plan
- Paid time off
- Employee discounts
- Opportunities for growth within a respected dealership group
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Work Location: In person
Requirements
PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS/EXPECTATIONS
- Meets and exceeds individual objectives as defined by supervisor
- Adheres to schedules and deadlines
- Thoroughness, accuracy, and timeliness in completing essential duties
- Shares company core values
ADDITIONAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
The following knowledge, skills and abilities are needed to be successful in this position:
- A team player who is focused on providing exemplary customer service
- A critical thinker and effective time manager
- Strong attention to detail and sense of urgency
- Excellent communication skills both written and oral
- Presentation skills - ability to present information in a clear and professional manner.
- Ability to work with high performing personnel
- Active Listening – give full attention to the words and body language of others, take time to understand the points being made and ask questions as appropriate
- Strong knowledge of benefit principles, laws, and regulations and technical knowledge of benefits functional areas
- Ability to quickly review, research and if necessary, resolve variances
- High level office and computer skills