Payroll Assistant at Payroll Department

About the role

Perform technical work in the preparation and processing of certificated and classified payrolls; maintain records such as payroll deductions and employee records; assure the accuracy of payments and deductions.

Responsibilities

• Perform technical work in the preparation and processing of certificated and classified payrolls.
• Receive and compute certificated and classified payrolls; process and assure accuracy of deductions for income tax, retirement and health insurance; prepare, code and enter payroll.
• Verify time records, signatures, authorization, budget codes and related information; audit time cards for errors and double entry; post and maintain payroll records, including changes, adjustments and deductions.
• Operate a computer terminal to input data and maintain records; type a variety of forms, reports, correspondence and other documents.
• Receive financial documents; review for accuracy and compliance to legal procedural requirements.
• Carry out steps necessary to authorize and assure payments to personnel.
• Post data to records, check and balance totals; research and compile information from PERS and STRS buy backs; prepare information for auditors as requested.
• Make computations and changes to financial data; calculate and make adjustments for PERS, STRS and alternative retirement plans as required; set up and make changes to credit unions, bank, TSA accounts and other accounts for employees; calculate and maintain garnishments, wage assignments and tax levies as assigned.
• Review time cards for accuracy and appropriate authorizations; assist employees with a variety of information related to payroll, deductions and related information.
• Mail checks to banks or employees as requested.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge and Abilities

• Knowledge of preparation and processing of payroll information.
• Knowledge of payroll policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of preparation, maintenance, verification and processing of payroll records.
• Knowledge of operation of a computer terminal and data entry techniques.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures and equipment.
• Knowledge of laws, rules and regulations related to assigned activities.
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
• Knowledge of applicable sections of the State Education Code and other applicable laws.
• Mathematical concepts including percentages and fractions.
• Ability to perform technical work in the preparation and processing of certificated and classified payrolls.
• Ability to learn District payroll policies and procedures.
• Ability to monitor, adjust and reconcile payroll data.
• Ability to make arithmetic computations with speed and accuracy.
• Ability to read and interpret complicated written instructions and utilize good judgment in determining methods of application.
• Ability to learn the use of a computer terminal for file input, update and maintenance.
• Ability to work courteously and effectively with the public and school personnel.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to provide a valid typing certificate.
• Ability to meet schedules and timelines.

Education and Experience

Any combination equivalent to: high school diploma or equivalent supplemented by either college-level course work in accounting or related field or responsible clerical experience including financial/statistical record-keeping or payroll preparation.

Working Conditions

Office environment.

Physical Demands

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard.
• Sitting for extended periods of time.
• Bending at the waist, kneeling or crouching.
• Reaching overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally to maintain and retrieve files.

Required Documents

• High School Diploma or Equivalent OR Associate's Degree OR Bachelor's Degree OR Higher Education Degree.
• Provide a valid typing certificate.

Special Requirements

• Typing certificate must be current (within last 6 months); Internet certificates will not be accepted.
• A practical job skills test may be administered as part of the interview process.
• If selected for the position, out-of-district applicants must be T.B. tested and fingerprinted.