Payroll Specialist *UPDATED SALARY*

Payroll Specialist

The position of payroll specialist is done for the purpose of processing all payroll functions to ensure the timely and accurate payment of all agency employees, including associated benefits, ensuring compliance with federal and state reporting requirements, and performing special payroll processing activities. This position reports to the director, Internal Business Services.

Functions

The key responsibilities include:

• Preparing and processing monthly payroll for the purpose ensuring timely and accurate compensation of employees.
• Compiling and maintaining employee information related to payroll (e.g. salary placement, benefit enrollment, payroll deductions, direct deposits, authorizations, leave time including PFML/FMLA, retirement data, employee withholdings, employment contracts, etc.) and monitoring processes and documentation necessary for accurate payroll records and providing a current audit trail.
• Processing and preparing personnel assignments and budgetary data for the purpose of assisting with the agency budget and required state reporting.
• Ensuring accurate payroll processing, appropriate allocation of funds, and compliance with established financial, legal, and administrative requirements.
• Processing a variety of fiscal information (e.g. payments, PFML/FMLA, retirement, benefit eligibility, court-ordered adjustments, job verifications, subpoena of payroll records, etc.) for the purpose of updating records and authorizing action in compliance with accounting requirements.
• Preparing a variety of external and internal reports and summaries related to payroll (e.g. quarterly and annual federal and state payroll tax and wage reports, W-2s, PFML information, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities and issues, conveying information, and complying with state and federal regulations.
• Researching and verifying discrepancies in payroll data (e.g. timesheets, leave time, unemployment eligibility, direct deposit requirements, salary schedule placement, benefit eligibility, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring accuracy and adherence to best practices and agency procedures.
• Reconciling enrollment forms and billing information to employee records (e.g. health insurance, retirement, PFML, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring accurate payment information complying with requirements.
• Responding to inquiries regarding a variety of payroll and benefit related questions (e.g. leave status, benefit eligibility, employment verifications, garnishments, child support, etc.) for the purpose of assisting employees, other departments, and outside agencies in the provision of services.
• Developing and refining payroll processes, reporting procedures, and internal controls for the purpose of maintaining accurate records and complying with requirements and laws.
• Working closely with Human Services staff for the purpose of ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time while administering payroll-related benefits and resolving payroll and compensation inquiries.
• Serving as a key resource for payroll processes, benefits coordination, and compliance with applicable policies and regulations.
• Assisting external auditors by providing requested information (e.g. payroll procedures and records, contract requirements, etc.) for the purpose of providing necessary documentation for completing of agency audit.
• Attending a variety of meetings and trainings for the purpose of conveying and gathering information required to perform the functions of the position.
• Performing related duties as assigned. Related duties may not specifically be listed but are within the general occupational series and responsibility level typically associated with the employee's classification of work.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

Skills are required to perform single, technical tasks with a potential need to upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skills required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the position include:

• Operating standard office equipment including pertinent software applications,
• Performing payroll and accounting procedures,
• Preparing and maintaining accurate records,
• Using effective decision-making techniques,
• Using proper grammar, spelling, proofreading, and punctuation, and
• Creating and maintaining multiple databases and records.

Knowledge is required to perform basic math, including calculations using fractions, percentages, and ratios, read technical information, compose a variety of documents, facilitate group discussions, and solve practical problems. Specific knowledge required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the position includes:

• Common principles and practices of payroll and benefit administration,
• Automated payroll practices and procedures,
• General accounting procedures,
• Federal, state, and local laws and/or regulations governing payroll processing and benefits administration,
• Knowledge of the payroll process in P-12 education or the public sector is preferred, and
• Knowledge of Skyward software is preferred.

Ability is required to schedule activities and meetings, routinely gather, collate, and classify data, and use basic, job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to work with others in a wide variety of circumstances, work with data utilizing defined and similar processes, and operate equipment using defined methods. Ability is also required to work with a diversity of individuals and groups, work with data of varied types and purposes, and utilize specific, job-related equipment. In working with others, problem solving is required to identify issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data requires independent interpretation of guidelines. Specific abilities required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the position include:

• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with coworkers and external partners,
• Communicating with diverse groups in a positive, customer-focused manner,
• Maintaining strict confidentiality,
• Reading, interpreting, and applying rules, regulations, and directives, and communicating them to the appropriate audience in an effective manner,
• Preparing accurate, clear, and concise reports,
• Working independently utilizing effective time management and organization,
• Setting priorities and meeting strict deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail,
• Working with detailed information/data,
• Answering complex questions related to payroll and benefits, and following through in a timely manner, and
• Having regular and reliable attendance.

General Requirements

Responsibilities include working under limited supervision following standardized practices and methods, leading, guiding, and coordinating others, and operating within a defined budget. Utilization of some resources from other work units is often required to perform the job's functions. There is a continual opportunity to impact the agency's services. Working Environment The usual and customary methods of performing the position's functions require the following physical demands: some lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling, and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally, the position requires 70% sitting, 15% walking, and 15% standing. This position is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment. Experience Demonstrated experience processing payroll from beginning to end is required. Education High school diploma or equivalent is required. An associate's degree or post-secondary education in accounting, business administration, finance, or a related field is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience that demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the essential functions of the position may also be considered. To be considered for this position, the following documents must be submitted. Incomplete applications will not be screened.

• Online application
• Resume
• One current, professional letter of recommendation (additional letters may also be uploaded)
• Transcripts (if applicable)
• Any applicable licensure/certification

Benefits

You are eligible for SEBB health benefits if NEWESD 101 anticipates you will work at least 630 hours per school year (September 1 through August 31). Your SEBB benefits include:

• Medical insurance - Medical insurance is optional. Employees who carry medical insurance will have a monthly out-of-pocket cost. Employees have the option to cover their family/dependents on medical insurance.
• Dental insurance - Dental insurance is mandatory and free to the employee and their family/dependents.
• Vision insurance - Vision insurance is mandatory and free to the employee and their family/dependents.
• Life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance - Basic life insurance is mandatory, and a $35,000 policy is free to the employee. The employee has the option to purchase additional life insurance.
• Long-term disability insurance - Basic long-term disability insurance is mandatory and is free to the employee. The employee has the option to purchase additional long-term disability insurance.

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Northeast Washington Educational Service District 101