Payroll and Benefits Manager

Position Description:

Valiant Solutions is seeking a Payroll and Benefits Manager to join our rapidly growing and innovative team!

The Payroll & Benefits Manager is responsible for overseeing the accurate and timely processing of payroll, administering employee benefits, and supporting employee wellness initiatives. The role also supports the organization’s strategic growth through scaling operations and integrating payroll and benefits functions for acquired companies. The position requires extensive experience, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage complex systems, ensuring compliance and a seamless employee experience.

Valiant Solutions is a company that cares about its employees- we've been named one of the Best Places to Work in the Washington DC area TEN years in a row!  If you are interested in learning more about Valiant and this opportunity, we invite you to apply now! 

This position allows for 100% remote work. Remote work necessitates a high-level trust in our employees and we strictly adhere to the details found below in our Remote Work Policy. 

Education and Certification

Bachelor’s degree in related field required plus a minimum of 5 years of job-related experience or any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Certifications related to position are highly preferred. 

Experience / Skills

• Extensive knowledge of payroll processing, multi-state taxation, and compliance.
• Expertise in benefits management, vendor relations, and employee wellness program development.
• Proficiency in payroll and HRIS software (e.g., Paylocity) and advanced reporting systems.
• Proven leadership abilities to manage payroll and benefits at a senior level.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to resolve complex payroll and benefits issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with employees, leadership, and external partners.

Responsibilities:

Payroll Management

• Oversee the full payroll function for a multi-state workforce, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including FLSA and IRS requirements.
• Manage and optimize the payroll system (e.g., Paylocity), ensuring functionality aligns with company needs.
• Lead the review of payroll processing for bi-weekly and semi-monthly payrolls, including audits to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Establish and enforce payroll policies, procedures, and controls to safeguard against errors and fraud.
• Oversee and maintain the time and attendance system, including integration with payroll and accurate tracking of PTO, sick leave, and other accruals.
• Manage payroll audits, tax filings, and compliance reporting for federal and state authorities.
• Lead process improvements to streamline payroll workflows, ensuring efficiency and scalability as the company grows.
• Act as the primary point of escalation for complex payroll issues, resolving discrepancies with a strategic approach.

Benefits Administration

• Design, implement, and oversee benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement plans, ensuring they are competitive and compliant with regulations.
• Manage annual benefits renewal and open enrollment processes, including strategic planning with brokers and leadership to optimize offerings.
• Evaluate and implement new benefits plans or enhancements based on employee needs and market trends, ensuring alignment with company goals.
• Develop and enforce processes for employee benefit enrollments, terminations, and status changes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Maintain vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and manage escalated issues related to claims, coverage, and eligibility.
• Conduct regular audits and reconciliations of benefits plans and invoices, addressing discrepancies proactively.
• Manage compliance with all benefits-related federal and state regulations, including COBRA, ACA, and ERISA.
• Create and distribute communication materials to employees regarding benefits offerings, updates, and enhancements.
• Oversee wellness initiatives, including employee education on available programs like virtual doctor visits, wellness claims, and perks.
• Provide strategic guidance and training to HR team members regarding benefits administration and employee support.
• Promote and communicate employee wellness initiatives, including wellness claims, EAP programs, and other perks.

Growth and Scaling

• Develop scalable payroll and benefits processes to support rapid growth and acquisitions.
• Lead integration efforts for acquired companies, ensuring smooth transitions for payroll and benefits systems.
• Collaborate with leadership to align payroll and benefits strategies with broader organizational goals.
• Create data-driven recommendations for enhancements to payroll and benefits programs based on analysis of industry trends and employee feedback.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure all payroll and benefits practices comply with applicable laws and regulations, including FLSA, ACA, and IRS guidelines.
• Prepare and present regular reports on payroll and benefits metrics to leadership.
• Manage documentation for audits and ensure readiness for any external reviews.

Characteristics and Abilities

• High level of interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation
• Ability to plan and coordinate many projects simultaneously with minimal supervision
• Ability to interact with all levels of personnel
• Ability to work in a fast paced dynamic environment
• Proven ability to meet deadlines and adapt quickly to changing and multiple priorities
• Energetic and forward thinking with high ethical standards
• A team player, trustworthy, and willing to share information
• Able to negotiate conflict and maintain constructive working relationships

Communication, Professionalism, and Attitude

• Foster a workplace environment consistent with the values and mission outlined by the Valiant Solutions leadership
• Communicate legibly, comprehensively, and accurately both verbally and in writing
• Appropriately express and share information 
• While teleworking, must maintain communication, accessibility, and collaboration 
• Accessible by phone, email, or messenger during the agreed-upon work schedule and respond to all communications within a reasonable time period
• Represent Valiant Solutions in a professional manner, and maintain good relationships with referral sources
• Appropriate professional image, groomed and attired
• Exhibit dependability and flexibility in working with others and able to demonstrate courtesy and respect in all relationships

About Valiant Solutions

Valiant Solutions is a security-focused IT solutions provider with public clients nationwide. We are a HUBZone small business and we encourage all candidates who live in a HUBZone to apply. Named one of the fastest growing privately held companies by Inc. 5000, Washington Technology’s Fast 50, and Washington Business Journal’s Best Places to Work in the D.C. area, Valiant Solutions prides itself on providing its employees with great benefits and career development opportunities. As a company, we are just as committed to growing careers as we are to building world-class IT solutions, all while enjoying an unparalleled work-life balance. We are in a phase of tremendous growth and building the team that will take us to the next level. We seek people whose talents and accomplishments will contribute to a thriving company, who have the character to support their capacity, and can make a positive impact on our culture. Alongside our talented team, you’ll learn to think quickly on your feet and expand your own personal and professional skill set. Our management team will inspire you to consider new perspectives and challenge you to become a better practitioner in the fast-paced industry of IT security. We hire people we respect – and we trust them to deliver results leveraging their expertise. If you would enjoy working in a dynamic environment as part of a stellar team of professionals, then we invite you to apply online today.

Benefits Snapshot (includes, but not limited to)

Valiant pays 99% of the Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage for Full-time Employees

Valiant contributes 25% towards Health Coverage for Family and Dependents

100% Paid Short Term Disability and Life Insurance Policy for Full-time Employees

100% Paid Certifications

401K Matching up to 4%

Paid Time Off

Paid Federal Holidays 

Paid Time On – 40 hours to pursue innovation

Wellness & Fitness Program

Valiant University – Online Education and Training Portal

Reimbursement for Public Transit and Parking

FSA programs for: Medical Costs, Dependent Care, Transit, and Parking

Referral Bonuses

The salary range for this position is a general guideline and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. It has been benchmarked in relation to the scope of the role, market rate, and internal equity. The salary for this role is expected to be in the $100,000 - $120,000 range. Where a candidate falls within the band can be determined based on one or more of the following: skillset, experience level, achievements, education, geographic location, security clearance, involvement in corporate tasks, and other non-discriminatory factors. In addition to the base salary, this role will include benefits as described above.  Valiant reserves the right to adjust the salary range, experience requirements, and position responsibilities at any time without prior notice. 

Remote Work Policy 

Remote work necessitates a high level of trust in our employees. To ensure that employee performance does not suffer in a remote work environment, all employees who telecommute are expected to have a quiet and distraction-free workspace with adequate internet, dedicate their full attention and availability to their job duties during working hours, and maintain a schedule during core business hours that align with those of their coworkers and Valiant's clients. In alignment with Valiant's inclusive and engaging environment, cameras are encouraged and can be required to be on during virtual video conferences. Additionally, in alignment with the Office of the Inspector General’s effort to eliminate conflicting employment, all Valiant employees are required to disclose any current or future outside employment engagements. During onboarding and throughout employment, employees must disclose any current activities or intent to engage in outside employment or other professional activities and obtain written approval.  Employees may not solicit or conduct any outside business during core business hours for Valiant Solutions and our clients.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Valiant Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, sex stereotyping, gender identity, gender expression or transgender status), religion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information/history or any other personal characteristic protected by law.

Physical Demands

Sitting or standing at a desk for prolonged periods of time and consistent operation of a computer. Frequent communication and exchanging of accurate information via electronic communication, phones, and in person. Occasionally lift and/or move moderate amounts of weight, typically less than 20 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Authorization to Share Resume and Personal Information

By submitting your resume for this position, you authorize Valiant Solutions to share your resume, as well as, personal information included on the resume, with its subsidiaries, affiliates and teaming partners for the purpose of considering you for this position and other available positions requiring comparable skills, education and experience. Should Valiant Solutions or its affiliates and teaming partners wish to initiate pre-employment discussions, you will be asked to complete an employment application and related employment documents.