Payroll Specialist

Maintain employee payroll-related records in the District’s payroll information system and audit payroll information for accuracy. Read, interpret, administer, and explain rules, regulations, and policies regarding payroll, plan documents and labor agreements to ensure staff members are paid correctly. Receive and process garnishment requests for employee pay. Complete and return required paperwork; enter corresponding garnishment withholdings into payroll. Assign taxes to employees based on their assigned work location and home addresses. Update tax assignments based on address changes received from employees as required. Calculate and enter voluntary deductions for employees based on wage and benefit elections. Process employee status changes (separations, leaves of absence, etc.) and ensure employees are paid correctly based on their assigned status. Review, analyze, and process adjustments to leave accruals (vacation, sick, personal Prepare, post, and review payroll-related general ledger entries. Reconcile benefit withholdings with G/L account balances. Prepare month-end, quarterly, and annual payroll reports. Receive payroll questions from employees and managers. Investigate and resolve issues, documenting all actions taken. Load data into the time and attendance system used standard import templates. Prepare time and attendance data for processing with the biweekly payroll process. Review time data for errors and apply manual adjustments / corrections as needed. Provide help and support to time and attendance managers in the administration of timekeeping in the system. Help enter missed punches, update time and attendance assignments, and answer system questions. Develop and assign work schedules in the timekeeping system for employees in collaboration with schools / departments. Train district timekeepers and employees in the use of timekeeping system as needed. Troubleshoot and elevate timekeeping issues with the system vendor as needed. Additional Duties Prepare responses to notices from government agencies regarding employee tax filings. Answer questions from employees, third-party vendors, state administrators, and other stakeholders. Participate in problem-solving and special projects within the Payroll Department. Use audit software to review payroll transactions; analyze and address any findings. Assist in the improvement of timekeeping and payroll administration. Provide recommendations regarding payroll policies to Treasury leaders. Streamline processes and introduce paperless procedures when possible. Help ensure that timekeeping and payroll procedures comply with federal, state, and District requirements. Perform other duties as assigned. CORE BEHAVIORS & COMPETENCIES Core Values Dependability = reliable attendance, consistently address and resolve issues, self-directed Integrity = honesty, refraining from talking behind others’ backs, ethical decision-making Collaboration = tactful and courteous; effective communication with others Compassion = showing concern, being friendly and approachable Excellence = professionalism; ability to work within tight deadlines effectively Job-specific Analytical Thinking = think critically and solve problems in difficult situations; capable of handling interruptions effectively; exercises independent judgment when appropriate Data Accuracy = attention to detail in an environment with significant amounts of repetition; error-free entry and reliable audits that minimize HR and payroll errors Organization Skills = ability to share information in meaningful ways; able to store records for quick, accurate retrieval Adaptability and Flexibility = willingness to change methods and approaches as appropriate QUALIFICATIONS Verifications Must be a U.S. citizen or have the legal right to work in the U.S. Must pass Federal and Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation background check in accordance with Ohio Administrative Code Section 3301-83-06 Knowledge & Experience Associate degree in an appropriate field and 3 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience (Bachelor degree preferred) 3+ years of payroll experience (Business Plus preferred) 3+ years of timekeeping system experience (Timeclock Plus preferred) 3+ years of Excel experience with knowledge of vlookups and pivot tables Thorough knowledge of payroll-related laws, regulations, and best practices, preferably in government entities Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, or equivalent applications Thorough knowledge of timekeeping and payroll best practices Knowledge of Ohio STRS and SERS programs Commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of payroll information PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES/DEMANDS Occasionally lift, carry, push, and pull various items up to a maximum of 20 pounds (50 pounds on wheels) While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, see, read, speak, reach, stretch with hands and arms, crouch, kneel, climb, and stoop WORK ENVIRONMENT Work is performed in an office setting at a computer workstation Occasional interaction with dissatisfied employees Work may be subject to frequent interruptions Some assignments are subject to completion within strict timelines Periodic travel for meetings, professional development activities, and #J-18808-Ljbffr