Payroll Specialist

12-month position, 8 hours per day (7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).

About the role

The Payroll Specialist performs complex payroll and accounting work requiring independent judgment and a deep understanding of payroll and financial procedures. This role demands strong analytical skills to develop compliant courses of action across department, district, state, and federal regulations. The position also requires extensive knowledge of corresponding contracts and working agreements to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and process payroll for a specific group, including adjustments, contract language application, and retroactive pay.
• Process personnel change notices and payroll updates, such as new pay rates, steps, assignments, and other maintenance tasks.
• Implement payroll and benefit provisions of working agreements as directed and maintain an accurate payroll database.
• Maintain accurate paper and electronic payroll records, including current and historical pay information.
• Process paid and unpaid time-off requests and ensure all work is completed within firm deadlines.
• Audit, record, and maintain all pay codes, including gross wages, taxes, and voluntary/involuntary deductions.
• Reconcile payroll accounts monthly between payroll and finance systems.
• Assist with the preparation of payroll-related work papers.
• Respond to payroll inquiries from employees, supervisors, and administrators.
• Collaborate with Human Resources to audit employee pay-related information for accuracy and consistency.
• Assist with the analysis of account code transfers.
• Create and maintain a desk manual for assigned functions.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent; Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in a related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of payroll/bookkeeping experience; school district experience preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of spreadsheet and database design, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Access.
• Experience with automated and integrated Payroll, Human Resources, and Absence Management systems.
• Familiarity with payroll and financial recordkeeping principles, practices, and terminology.
• Up-to-date knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations applicable to school districts and accounting practices.
• Strong attention to detail and analytical abilities to ensure data accuracy.
• Proficiency in modern office practices, procedures, and equipment (e.g., computers, fax, copier, 10-key).

Skills

• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm and efficient under pressure.
• Strong organizational skills, creative thinking, initiative, and systems-oriented problem-solving.
• Team and customer service orientation.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of highly sensitive information and understand disclosure protocols.
• Interpersonal skills, including tact, patience, and courtesy, to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and life insurance.
• Long-term disability insurance.
• Sick leave and state pension plan.
• Tax-deferred retirement savings account (403(b)).
• Flexible spending account (FSA).
• Vacation, holidays, or personal leave (varies by employee group).
• Benefits available from the first day of active employment if eligible.

Pay

$25.99 – $29.17 per hour, according to the RAVE Clerical Association contractual agreement (2026-27 contract).