HRIS & Payroll Specialist

The HRIS & Payroll Specialist supports the Association’s HR and payroll operations through the accurate administration of biweekly payroll, maintenance of employee records, and effective use of UKG Ready. Serving as a primary UKG resource, this position prepares and analyzes HRIS reports, processes employee transactions, resolves system and payroll issues, and proactively identifies opportunities to improve data accuracy, workflows, and operational efficiency. The Specialist collaborates with HR, Finance, and operational staff to ensure reliable information and consistent processes across the Association.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Models the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in all interactions with staff, volunteers, members, vendors, and guests.
• Serves as a primary UKG Ready resource, supporting system functionality, employee data integrity, and day-to-day HRIS and payroll operations.
• Administers biweekly payroll through UKG, including reviewing payroll information, processing adjustments, maintaining records, and researching and resolving discrepancies.
• Processes and maintains employee transactions in UKG, including new hires, transfers, compensation changes, terminations, and other personnel updates, ensuring accurate documentation and approvals.
• Prepares, maintains, and analyzes HRIS and payroll reports, including employee data, compensation, labor distributions, and other information needed by HR, Finance, and operational leadership.
• Independently researches and troubleshoots HRIS and payroll issues involving timekeeping, employee records, deductions, leave accruals, and system functionality, coordinating with UKG support or appropriate staff as needed.
• Proactively identifies and implements opportunities to improve UKG workflows, database accuracy, reporting, and operational efficiency; supports system enhancements, testing, and implementation of new functionality.
• Provides technical guidance and training to employees and supervisors on UKG processes, including timekeeping, approvals, employee self-service, and payroll-related matters. Maintains procedures and reference materials to support consistent system use.
• Provides technical guidance and training to employees and supervisors on UKG processes, including timekeeping, approvals, employee self-service, and payroll-related matters. Maintains procedures and reference materials to support consistent system use.
• Follows and reinforces YMCA policies and procedures, including child abuse prevention, employee confidentiality, data security, and applicable payroll and employment requirements.
• Collaborates with HR and Finance on payroll reconciliations, reporting, and assigned projects; participates in required meetings and trainings and performs other duties as assigned.

• Associate's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience considered.
• Minimum three (3) years of payroll, HRIS, or related experience, including payroll processing, employee data management, and reporting.
• Strong technical proficiency with HRIS/payroll systems and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; UKG Ready experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to independently troubleshoot issues, improve processes, and maintain accurate records.
• Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills; ability to manage competing deadlines, exercise sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality.
• Must complete required YMCA onboarding, Child Abuse Prevention, compliance, and role-related training.