Payroll and Benefits Specialist

Payroll and Benefits Specialist – Temporary Starting Date: Immediately Job Description Part‑time, temporary position. 7 hours/day. Summary Under basic supervision, performs technical payroll accounting functions, administers employee benefits programs, and maintains technical and accounting records for MPS; researches, reconciles, and assures the accuracy of the payroll ledgers and accounts; assists employees with benefits issues, and provides customer service within scope of authority. Essential Functions Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Processes payroll, benefits, and technical transactions, in compliance with all applicable federal and state rules and regulations, and MPS policies and procedures; exercises high degree of confidentiality and professionalism. Compiles and reviews payroll, benefits, and related data; validates data, enters data into computer systems, and maintains payroll and benefits database; assures the accuracy of the payroll records. Reviews source documents for compliance to rules and regulations; determines proper handling of payroll and technical transactions within designated limits; reports discrepancies. Checks payroll and benefits documents for validity and accuracy of information; performs mathematical calculations; reviews and reconciles transactions and records, and corrects errors as required. Collects payroll, benefits, and administrative information and compiles data for reports; identifies and researches payroll issues, and recommends solutions; prepares and distributes required reports. Prepares payrolls for review, approval, and submittal to the Business Manager; generates technical payroll reports for government agencies; tracks and updates employee information for taxes and benefit deductions, wage assignments, retirement, and other payments. Interprets and explains employee benefits policies, procedures, rules, and regulations; works with employees to explain benefits enrollment options, and assists with forms and change procedures; assists with open enrollments, onboarding new employees, and processing exiting employees. Provides information and assistance to employees as authorized; responds to requests for information, and attempts to resolve them by researching files and records within the scope of authority; refers matters requiring policy interpretation to supervisor for resolution. Maintains computer time‑keeping system for payroll management; trains users as needed; calculates and reports federal and state payroll taxes; reconciles all quarterly payroll tax. Oversees the work of assigned staff, and verifies compliance with MPS policies and procedures. Supports the relationship between the Minot Public School District and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with clients, visitors, and District staff; maintains absolute confidentiality of work‑related issues, client records, and District information; follows compliance rules governing child abuse; performs related duties as required or assigned. Minimum Qualifications Education, training, and experience guidelines: Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a closely related field; and three years payroll accounting and benefits program experience, preferably with a public sector agency; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Knowledge of MPS organization, operations, policies, and procedures. Principles and practices of municipal finance and records management. General accounting standards, policies, procedures, and regulations. Payroll accounting rules, regulations, methods, and procedures. State and federal regulations governing payroll and benefits accounting functions, including North Dakota Century Code § 71. Business and personal computers, spreadsheet software applications, and specialized accounting software applications. Skills Understanding and applying accounting standards and procedures, and applicable federal and state rules and regulations for payroll accounting. Verifying and reconciling payroll information, and maintaining payroll documentation and reports. Researching and evaluating payroll and benefits issues, programs, policies, and procedures. Interpreting and explaining technical aspects of employee benefits policies and procedures. Meeting deadlines and strict time frames for payroll processing and benefits enrollments. Maintaining accurate accounting records, and identifying and reconciling errors. Performing mathematical calculations with skill and accuracy. Entering numerical data into a computer system with speed and accuracy. Preparing, reviewing, and monitoring accounting documents for accuracy and completeness. Researching, collecting, analyzing, and preparing data; and generating reports. Operating a personal computer utilizing standard and specialized software. Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with co‑workers. Communicating effectively verbally and in writing. License and Certification Requirements A valid North Dakota State Driver’s License may be required. Certification/training for CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) is desirable and may be required. Physical Demands and Working Environment Work is performed in a standard office environment. This position is subject to veteran's preference. #J-18808-Ljbffr