Payroll / HR Specialist

Tampa, FL

Sihl is a strong partner for future‑oriented industries and creates innovative solutions with its premium coatings. With more than 400 employees in the Sihl Group, we contribute to the success of our customers across a wide range of industries in almost every country in the world. From automotive and tourism to packaging, labels, printing, and logistics, customers trust our premium coatings and technological expertise. As a specialist for future‑proof products, Sihl lays the foundation for innovative trends and promotes sustainable results. In short, Sihl is simply the better solution.

Job Description

POSITION: Payroll / HR Specialist 

REPORTS TO: Vice President of Human Resources 

CLASSIFICATION: Full Time – Salaried, Exempt

Position Summary

The Payroll / HR Specialist is primarily responsible for managing and executing all payroll functions for the organization, with a strong emphasis on accuracy, compliance, and timely processing. This role requires hands‑on experience with payroll systems—preferably UKG Ready—and the ability to support HR operations including benefits administration, employee relations, compliance reporting, and HRIS maintenance. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, bilingual (English/Spanish preferred), and committed to supporting Sihl’s mission, vision, and values. Hybrid schedule available once fully trained in the role.

Duties and Responsibilities

Payroll Administration

Processes weekly and semimonthly payroll with a high degree of accuracy using UKG Ready (preferred).

Reviews and audits payroll data including hours worked, earnings, deductions, and tax withholdings.

Prepares monthly, quarterly, and annual payroll/tax reports.

Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations and maintains up‑to‑date knowledge of payroll laws.

Manages year‑end payroll activities including W‑2 processing and reconciliation.

HRIS & Data Management

Maintains and updates the HRIS system (UKG Ready preferred), ensuring data integrity and accurate reporting.

Generates HR, payroll, and performance reports as needed for leadership and compliance.

Benefits & Leave Administration

Administers employee benefits including health insurance, open enrollment, and qualifying life event changes.

Manages leave programs including FMLA, short‑term disability, and long‑term disability.

Compliance & Reporting

Supports annual compliance audits including 401(k), Workers’ Compensation, and SOC audits.

Maintains OSHA logs and Workers’ Compensation claims and prepares required reports.

Submits federal and state compliance surveys and assists with EEO‑1 and affirmative action reporting.

Employee Support & HR Operations

Responds to employee payroll and policy questions with professionalism and confidentiality.

Supports staffing and onboarding processes as needed.

Participates in safety and community committees and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives.

Coordinates employee recognition programs and HR‑related events.

Performs additional HR duties as assigned to support departmental goals.

Essential Skills

Strong payroll experience required; UKG Ready experience strongly preferred.

Bilingual English/Spanish preferred for effective employee communication.

Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

Excellent communication skills—oral, written, and interpersonal.

Strong organizational and time‑management abilities with the capacity to meet deadlines.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams).

Knowledge of HR fundamentals including employee relations, benefits, and compliance.

Understanding of state and federal employment laws and payroll regulations.

Ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

Experience & Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field preferred

Minimum 4 years of payroll and HR experience

Experience with HRIS systems preferred (UKG Ready strongly preferred)

HR certifications a plus

Bilingual in Spanish strongly preferred