Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist Reporting to the Director of Payroll and Benefits, the Senior Payroll Specialist provides high‑level support in processing the University’s semi‑monthly payroll. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations, maintains data integrity, and contributes to continuous process improvement. Responsibilities Accurately process and audit all university employees’ semi‑monthly payroll, ensuring timesheet hours are accurate and comply with federal, state, and University policies. Maintain and update employee tax withholding and direct deposit information, and ensure timely entry of new hires, changes, and terminations in accordance with institutional procedures. Process pay advices, supplemental payments, and retroactive pay adjustments and communicate retroactive payment details to affected employees. Interpret and apply federal, state, and university payroll regulations to ensure full compliance; identify and recommend process enhancements. Reconcile and process wage file uploads to the University’s third‑party vendor; manage and reconcile payroll tax data and upload it for timely and accurate tax deposits. Review and process employee wage garnishments, submit deductions through the online system, or check requests as appropriate. Create and post monthly journal entries for FSA, dependent care, and payroll tax liabilities. Prepare and submit monthly payroll data reports to the Department of Labor Statistics; enter taxable benefit information, including late reimbursement requests and taxable gifts, in compliance with IRS and institutional regulations. Maintain the Remote/Hybrid forms and spreadsheet, ensuring compliance with the University’s policy. Prepare and issue off‑cycle payments for terminations, retroactive adjustments, lost checks, and other special circumstances. Serve as a subject‑matter expert and primary contact for payroll‑related inquiries from employees, HR, and Finance; provide guidance on payroll policies, procedures, and system functionality. Assist the Director of Payroll and Benefits with complex payroll functions, audits, and compliance reporting; act as a backup for essential payroll operations during staff absences. Perform other payroll‑related duties and projects as assigned. Minimum Qualifications 5 years of payroll experience, including knowledge of federal and California labor and employment laws, FLSA, and overtime requirements. Proficient use of general office equipment (ten‑key, Microsoft Office Suite, printers, copiers, fax machines). Preferred Qualifications Experience using Banner HRIS. Experience with UKG Ready. Experience in higher education. Benefits Summary Benefits include a comprehensive health and wellness plan, tuition remission program for employees, spouses, and dependent children, a generous contribution to the University’s 403B retirement plan, and a generous time‑off plan. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of a background check and employment verification. Physical Demands Summary The position requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 20 pounds occasionally. Clear verbal and written communication is essential, as the position involves frequent interaction with colleagues, clients, or external partners. The noise level is generally low to moderate. The position may occasionally involve meeting deadlines or managing multiple priorities, which can require sustained focus and mental stamina. Application Statement The University of La Verne is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas at this time. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future. EEO / Diversity Statement The University supports a diverse and inclusive environment where students, faculty, and staff recognize and benefit from the life experiences and viewpoints of others. Diversity is an active and intentional practice that supports difference and multiplicity to expand knowledge, educate capable citizens, develop the whole person, and serve our local and global communities. Salary Range Minimum: $25.41 per hour, Maximum: $29.45 per hour Posting Number 2024-251189SA #J-18808-Ljbffr