PAYROLL & BENEFITS MANAGER

SUMMARY
Forsyth School is on the lookout for a dynamic Payroll & Benefits Manager to lead our payroll and benefits administration. You will oversee all payroll and benefits functions, working closely with the Assistant Head of School for Finance and Operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Human Resources and Payroll

• Manage and update employee records in our payroll and benefits systems.
• Implement and maintain internal audits to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of employee data.
• Handle semi-monthly payroll processing for both regular and seasonal employees using Paycor and our electronic timekeeping module.
• Lead the Benefits Open Enrollment process each year, collaborating with the broker and Section 125 administrator to streamline enrollment.
• Configure and maintain earnings, deductions, time policies, and FLSA classifications in Paycor.
• Oversee background checks and fingerprinting processes.
• Update the employee handbook as needed.
• Prepare for annual work comp audits, assist with salary budgeting, financial audit preparations, Forms 5500, and industry surveys.

Employee Engagement

• Drive continuous improvement in payroll and benefits processes through software integrations.
• Educate employees on navigating the payroll interface, benefits, and overall school benefits.
• Address employee questions about payroll and benefits, using each interaction as a chance to empower employees with self-service tools in Paycor and Employee Navigator.
• Advise employees on insurance and retirement plan eligibility and enrollment, and work with carriers to resolve any issues.
• Manage the onboarding process using Paycor Recruiting and Onboarding.

Accounting

• Handle the electronic deposit of accounts receivable and charitable check payments.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, human resources management, or a related field. Relevant education and experience will also be considered.
• 3-7 years of experience in payroll, human resources, and/or retirement benefits administration.
• Proficiency with Paycor, Blackbaud, or similar software solutions.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, with strong mathematical skills and the ability to juggle multiple tasks.
• Strong commitment to confidentiality and professionalism.
• Analytical thinker and proactive problem solver.
• Experience with process improvement and systems implementation is highly preferred.
• Excellent emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills for onboarding, training, and building relationships with staff.
• Proficiency in Excel and strong computer skills (Microsoft, Google).

ABOUT FORSYTH SCHOOL
Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Forsyth is an independent co-ed school for children aged 2 through Grade 6, serving 380 students. Our campus, adjacent to Washington University and Forest Park, offers access to a range of cultural institutions including free museums, a world-class zoo, and a vibrant food and music scene. Our historic facilities, six stately homes from the 1920s and 30s, have been transformed into classrooms and community spaces. Since its founding in 1961, Forsyth has fostered a nurturing environment with high expectations and a focus on excellent teaching.

SALARY AND BENEFITS
This full-time, exempt position offers a minimum salary of $58,000, along with a generous time-off and holiday policy, and a supportive work environment. The role includes a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, retirement matching, education benefits, EAP, and other perks. The start date is flexible, and the position will remain open until filled.

HOW TO APPLY
To apply, submit your materials [here]. Include a cover letter addressed to Elizabeth McDonald, your resume, and 3-5 professional references. We will notify you before contacting your references.

Forsyth School is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, family composition, genetic information, citizenship, national or ethnic origin, or any other protected status. We encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply.

We review applications on a rolling basis, so please submit your materials as soon as possible. Our background screening process includes a social media check, satisfactory reference checks with prior and current employers, and a successful criminal background screening, including fingerprinting.

About Forsyth School

Forsyth School provides an unforgettable experience for children age 2 through Grade 6. Forsyth's one-of-a-kind campus consists of six historic homes; walkable resources include Forest Park and Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. The challenging and engaging curriculum promotes age-appropriate independence and prepares students to thrive in secondary school and beyond. At Forsyth, our talented and caring faculty encourage students to explore and question, enabling them to learn deeply. Each child's unique identity is known, celebrated, and nurtured by our supportive community. The results are profound: children take risks, pursue challenges, and find joy in learning. The "Forsyth experience" is enriched by the school's unique campus, location, and commitment to the natural world. Mission: Forsyth School fosters a spirit of curiosity and joy, empowering children to pursue challenges with confidence.

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