HR Operations and Payroll Manager
Payroll, Benefits and Core HR Support
Full time | 12 month | On campus | Reports to the Chief Human Resources Officer
Position summary
The Brearley School seeks an experienced HR Operations and Payroll Manager to provide dependable operational support across payroll, benefits and core human resources services. Payroll is the role’s primary execution responsibility. The manager owns semi-monthly payroll processing in Dayforce, for hourly and salaried employees. The manager also serves as the benefits administration expert and coordinates defined HR processes in partnership with the Chief Human Resources Officer.
We invite interested candidates to apply by completing an application and uploading a cover letter and resume at: https://www.brearley.org/careers-at-brearley/.
Payroll and Dayforce
• Own and process the semi-monthly payroll cycle in Dayforce for approximately 80 hourly and 200 salaried employees, including regular pay, additional pay, deductions, approved adjustments and off cycle transactions when needed.
• Maintain a clear checklist that coordinates payroll deadlines, coordinates time and attendance inputs, and validates all earnings and employee changes. Release payroll only after required review and authorization are complete.
• Maintain and troubleshoot the time entry system and work with all managers for time entry approvals.
• Respond to employee payroll questions, protect confidential information and maintain accurate Dayforce records and workflows.
• Identify recurring errors and recommend practical system, training or process improvements. Maintain cross training and backup procedures with designated colleagues.
Benefits administration and funding
• Administer all aspects of employee benefits plans including health, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, group term and voluntary life, worker’s compensation, 403(b) retirement, unemployment and pre-tax expense programs. Maintain accurate records and confirm elections and deductions are reflected correctly in Dayforce and with benefit providers.
• Support the planning and administration of annual open enrollment, including system preparation, employee communications, election review and post enrollment reconciliation.
• Respond to employee questions and coordinate timely resolution of eligibility, claims or service issues.
• Review and reconcile monthly invoices, administrative fees, payroll deductions and contribution reports. Coordinate accurate and timely reconciliation and funding for all benefits.
• Calculate and fund employer 403(b) retirement contribution
• Coordinate benefit related disability and leave documentation with the Chief Human Resources Officer and the appropriate providers.
Other Duties
• Coordinate onboarding and offboarding logistics, including Dayforce setup, required forms, I9, background check coordination, orientation and follow up with managers and school offices.
• Maintain employment agreement and contract records, monitor renewal and notice dates and coordinate review, signature and distribution with the Chief Human Resources Officer and school leaders.
• Monitor assigned HR service requests and support leave administration by tracking requests, notices, documentation, deadlines and return to work steps.
• Coordinate performance review timelines, system steps, reminders and completion reports.
• Maintain payroll, benefits and HR records in accordance with applicable federal, New York State and New York City requirements and school practices.
• Participate in and prepare reports and reconciliations for the annual year-end financial audit, IRS 990, annual year-end 403b audit, 5500, 8955, and other payroll and benefit audit, reviews and surveys.
Qualifications
• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in payroll, benefits administration and HR operations, including direct ownership of recurring payroll processing
• At least three years of Dayforce experience processing hourly and salaried employees is required. Candidates must be able to process and troubleshoot payroll in the system
• At least three years of experience with benefits administration including open enrollment, carrier billing, contribution reconciliation and benefit funding processes
• Proficiency with Google Suite and Microsoft Excel and Word
• Experience in a school or other mission driven organization is preferred
• A bachelor’s degree and HR or payroll certification are preferred
• Bilingual (Spanish) preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Must communicate with employees, managers, school leaders, and outside providers while handling sensitive information
Salary
In 2026-2027, the total salary for this position ranges from $95,000 to $130,000 depending on experience.
Benefits
Benefits offered to eligible employees include a range of options for health insurance coverage; an HSA plan; pre-tax transit benefits; long-term disability insurance; a retirement plan that includes a school contribution, upon eligibility, starting at 10% of salary with no mandatory employee contribution; support for professional growth and development; and the opportunity to participate in a community based on collaboration, mutual care, and a commitment to the greater good. Faculty may also apply for housing in a nearby Brearley-owned building.
The Brearley School is committed to creating an inclusive community and welcomes candidates who will contribute to a respectful and supportive workplace.
