Payroll Support Specialist

The Opportunity

Lesley University is seeking a Payroll Support Specialist to join the Human Resources department. Reporting to the Payroll Manager, this role supports the timely and accurate processing of on-cycle and off-cycle payrolls, audits, reconciliations, variance analysis, and payroll reporting. The Specialist will leverage Workday payroll expertise, including configuration, reporting, calculated fields, and time tracking, to maintain and optimize payroll operations.

• Responsibilities include troubleshooting payroll and system issues, supporting system upgrades and enhancements, conducting audits, ensuring compliance with federal and state payroll regulations, and implementing process improvements.
• Works closely with Finance, IT, and Financial Aid, developing reports and analytics, supporting general ledger reconciliations and payroll tax compliance, monitoring Federal Work Study earnings and award balances, and helping maintain strong internal controls.
• Documents standard operating procedures, responds to employee payroll inquiries, and supports other payroll-related initiatives.

This position requires a highly detail-oriented professional with payroll expertise, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments while maintaining confidentiality and compliance.

Qualities & Capabilities

• A successful candidate will have:
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field or equivalent work experience
• Two to five+ years of direct payroll experience (required); Experience within a higher education setting (preferred)
• Demonstrated success utilizing a payroll ERP system (required); Workday experience (preferred)
• Knowledge of payroll and accounting principles, payroll methods, Department of Labor regulations, and federal and state tax regulations
• Demonstrated experience working autonomously and managing deadlines effectively
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; Strong ability to maintain effective working relationships with all levels of the university and external partners
• Excellent time management skills; Ability to multitask while maintaining accuracy and precision