Payroll & Benefits Manager

Cole Schotz P.C.PAYROLL & BENEFITS MANAGER – NEW JERSEY OFFICE: Prominent AM Law 200 law firm with multiple regional office locations seeks a Payroll & Benefits Manager for our New Jersey Office. The Payroll & Benefits Manager is responsible for the oversight of accurate, compliant, and timely processing of multi‑state payroll, administration of firm-wide benefit programs, and ongoing process improvement. This leader will partner closely with HR, Finance, and Firm Leadership to support a high-quality employee experience while ensuring adherence to federal, state, and local regulations. Key ResponsibilitiesManage the end‑to‑end payroll process for a multi‑state payroll, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness.Oversee benefits administration including medical, dental, vision, FSA/HSA, life insurance, disability, 401(k), and leave programs.Serve as primary liaison with payroll and benefits vendors; lead annual open enrollment and related communications.Audit payroll and benefits data regularly to maintain data integrity and compliance with all applicable regulations.Monitor changes in federal, state, and local employment, tax, and wage laws; implement required adjustments.Support compensation‑related reporting, including year‑end W‑2, ACA filings, 401(k) compliance testing, and audits.Provide responsive support to employees regarding payroll questions, benefit options, and issue resolution.Partner with HR and Finance leadership on projects related to system upgrades, process improvement, and firmwide initiatives.Qualifications 5+ years of payroll and benefits experience; law firm or professional services experience strongly preferred.Strong knowledge of multi‑state payroll regulations and experience managing payroll for employees across multiple jurisdictions.Proficiency with payroll/HRIS systems (ADP preferred) and advanced Excel skills.Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with high attention to detail.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively across teams.CPP, PHR, SHRM‑CP, or related certification a plus. What We Offer Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.Opportunities for professional development and growth.A collegial and supportive work environment where contributions are valued.Hybrid work flexibility. Salary is commensurate with experience. The salary range for this position is $125,000 to $150,000. Please e-mail resume for consideration to: Gayle P. Englert Chief Human Resources Officer Cole Schotz P.C. Court Plaza North 25 Main Street, P.O. Box 800 Hackensack, NJ Please visit our website: www.coleschotz.com NEW JERSEY/NEW YORK/DELAWARE/MARYLAND/TEXAS/FLORIDA/WASHINGTON D.C. Cole Schotz is an Equal Opportunity Employer