Application Guide

How to Apply for Manager, Payroll and Benefits

at Federation of American Scientists

🏢 About Federation of American Scientists

The Federation of American Scientists is a unique nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that brings scientific expertise to bear on critical national security and science policy challenges. Working at FAS means contributing to mission-driven work that impacts public policy and national security, offering a meaningful alternative to corporate payroll/benefits roles. Their focus on science and policy creates an intellectually stimulating environment where your administrative expertise directly supports experts tackling global issues.

About This Role

As Manager of Payroll and Benefits at FAS, you'll be the sole expert responsible for administering all employee compensation and benefits programs for a mission-driven organization. This role is impactful because you'll ensure FAS's scientific and policy staff can focus on their critical work without administrative distractions, while maintaining compliance in a complex regulatory environment. You'll directly contribute to employee satisfaction and retention through meticulous benefits management and accurate payroll processing.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve processing semi-monthly payroll adjustments, responding to employee benefits inquiries, reconciling 403(b) contributions, and preparing compliance documentation for upcoming ACA filings. You'll balance routine administrative tasks with strategic planning for benefits renewals and ensuring all processes meet the strict compliance requirements of a national nonprofit organization.

🚀 Application Tools

Generate Cover Letter

AI-powered, tailored for Federation of American Scientists

Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who Federation of American Scientists Is Looking For

  • Has 4-6 years of hands-on experience specifically with nonprofit payroll (preferably 403(b) plans) and benefits administration, not just general HR experience
  • Demonstrates intermediate-to-expert Excel skills with specific examples of using pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, and complex formulas for payroll reconciliation and benefits analysis
  • Possesses deep knowledge of compliance requirements for nonprofits including ACA filings, ERISA, and 403(b) regulations specific to scientific/educational organizations
  • Shows proven ability to handle sensitive information with discretion, particularly important in an organization dealing with national security topics

📝 Tips for Applying to Federation of American Scientists

1

Highlight any experience with 403(b) retirement plans specifically, as this is common in nonprofit/scientific organizations like FAS

2

Mention familiarity with payroll systems commonly used by nonprofits (like ADP Workforce Now or similar) rather than just generic payroll software

3

Quantify your experience with semi-monthly payroll processing - specify the number of employees you've managed and any state/local tax jurisdictions you've handled

4

Demonstrate understanding of FAS's mission by connecting how efficient payroll/benefits administration supports scientific and policy work

5

Provide specific examples of how you've ensured compliance with ACA, ERISA, and COBRA in previous roles, particularly for organizations with multiple state operations

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience with nonprofit payroll and benefits compliance, emphasizing 403(b) administration and ACA filings', "Examples of how you've handled sensitive information in previous roles, crucial for an organization dealing with national security topics", 'Your ability to work independently as the sole payroll/benefits expert, managing both strategic planning and day-to-day operations', "Why you're drawn to supporting FAS's scientific mission through administrative excellence"]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → FAS's specific programs and initiatives to understand how your role supports their scientific and policy work
  • → Nonprofit compliance requirements specific to 501(c)(3) organizations regarding benefits and payroll
  • → The organization's history and current focus areas (nuclear security, emerging technologies, etc.) to understand their operational context
  • → Typical benefits structures at similar scientific/research nonprofit organizations

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through your process for ensuring ACA compliance and preparing annual filings for a multi-state organization
2 How would you handle a benefits audit for our 403(b) plan, and what documentation would you prepare?
3 Describe your experience with semi-monthly payroll processing across multiple states and local jurisdictions
4 How do you stay current with changing payroll and benefits regulations that affect nonprofit organizations?
5 Can you give an example of how you've improved a benefits program or payroll process in a previous role?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with only corporate payroll experience without demonstrating understanding of nonprofit-specific requirements (403(b), different compliance landscape)
  • Failing to show intermediate/expert Excel skills with concrete examples relevant to payroll and benefits analysis
  • Being vague about compliance experience - FAS needs someone who can independently manage complex regulatory requirements without constant supervision

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Federation of American Scientists!

← Back to Job Listing Apply Now →