Overview In this role, you will lead payroll and benefits operations within Archipelago's Tradewind Services, ensuring accurate pay, compliant benefits, and regulatory adherence. You'll collaborate with HR, Finance, and external partners to optimize programs and maintain audits. The position drives process improvements, system enhancements, and seamless payroll during acquisitions. You'll work in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial culture that values integrity and cross-functional impact. This is a hands-on, strategic opportunity to shape people programs for a growing consumer brands portfolio.
Compensation / Benefits- chef prepared breakfast and lunch
- brand discounts and product gifts
- company bonus program
- milestone travel gifts
- medical, dental, vision insurance
- life insurance and 401k with employer match
Responsibilities- Oversee end-to-end payroll processing ensuring accuracy and compliance across federal, state, and local regulations
- Maintain payroll records and manage tax filings, deductions, and direct deposits
- Manage benefits programs and enrollment, renewals, and vendor relationships
- Lead audits (401K, workers' comp) and prepare documentation for auditors
- Ensure compliance with ACA, COBRA, ERISA, W-2s, 1095-Cs, and other government filings
- Coordinate with HRIS/IT to optimize payroll and benefits systems and automate reporting
- Support acquisitions with payroll integration and transition planning
- Provide employee-facing guidance and communication on payroll and benefits options
- Prepare internal and regulatory reports including ACA, EEO, and tax reports
- Oversee 1099 processing and contractor compliance
- Oversee payroll analytics reporting and internal controls
- Coordinate retail operations-related accounting needs when applicable
- Lead annual benefits open enrollment and wellness initiatives
- Adhere to wage and hour laws (FLSA) and manage system configurations for new hires and terminations
Key requirements- Bachelor's degree in related field or equivalent experience
- 8+ years in payroll and benefits administration
- Strong knowledge of multi-state payroll laws and regulations (FLSA, ACA, COBRA, ERISA, IRS)
- Experience with HRIS/payroll systems (ADP, Paychex, BambooHR, Full Circle)
- Attention to detail and ability to handle confidential information
- Professional certification such as CPP (preferred)
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Familiarity with AI-enabled tools for productivity and compliance
- In-office hybrid role in Irvine, CA (4 days in office)
- Analytical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Communication
- Payroll processing and compliance
- HRIS and payroll systems (ADP, Paychex, BambooHR, Full Circle)
- Regulatory reporting (W-2, 1095-C, ACA, EEO)
