Payroll Specialist

Payroll SpecialistReports To: ControllerOrganization: Tejano CenterLocation: District OfficeFLSA Status: Non-ExemptEmp Employment Status: Full-TimeWork Calendar Status: 12 Months (238 Days)Salary: MIN: $50,000 annually MID: $55,000 annually MAX: $60,000 annuallyPosition Summary:Manage and process payroll operations for Tejano Center for Community Concerns and RYSS Texas Public Schools in compliance with federal, state, local, and Texas Education Agency (TEA) requirements. Ensure the accurate and timely processing of employee compensation, benefits deductions, retirement contributions, tax payments, and related payroll reporting. Maintain confidentiality of sensitive employee information while providing exceptional customer service to employees and stakeholders.Education and Experience:EducationHigh School Diploma or GEDAssociate's degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferredTASBO certification or willingness to obtain certification preferredPayroll-related certification (FPC, CPP, or equivalent) preferredExperienceMinimum two (2) years of payroll, accounting, finance, or business office experienceExperience utilizing computerized payroll and financial systemsExperience in Texas public school districts, charter schools, or governmental payroll processing preferredExperience with Ascender Business, Skyward, Munis, or similar ERP/payroll systems preferredExperience processing TRS reporting and payroll tax filings preferredMajor Responsibilities and Duties:Payroll AdministrationProcess biweekly, semi-monthly, monthly, and supplemental payrolls accurately and within established deadlines.Review and verify employee timesheets, leave records, and payroll transactions for completeness and accuracy.Maintain employee payroll records, earnings, deductions, direct deposit information, tax withholdings, and benefit elections.Enter and audit payroll data within the organization's payroll management system.Process direct deposit transactions and coordinate payroll distributions.Calculate employee earnings, overtime, stipends, supplements, retroactive pay, and applicable deductions.Ensure compliance with Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) regulations regarding employee compensation.Payroll Compliance and ReportingProcess and monitor wage garnishments, child support orders, tax levies, and other court-ordered deductions.Prepare, reconcile, and submit Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) reports.Process and submit federal payroll tax deposits and related tax obligations.Assist with the preparation and filing of quarterly and annual payroll reports, including Forms 941, W-2, and related reporting requirements.Assist in payroll reconciliations and year-end payroll closing processes.Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations.Employee Service and SupportRespond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, leave balances, tax withholding, benefit deductions, and payroll discrepancies.Research and resolve payroll issues in a timely and professional manner.Educate employees regarding payroll procedures and timelines.Audits and Internal ControlsMaintain payroll records and supporting documentation in accordance with retention requirements.Assist in preparation for annual financial audits, payroll audits, TRS audits, and compliance reviews.Support internal control procedures to ensure payroll accuracy and accountability.Verify appropriate approvals for overtime, stipend payments, leave adjustments, and supplemental compensation.Personnel TransactionsProcess payroll-related onboarding, employment changes, and separation transactions.Close payroll accounts and update records for terminated employees.Coordinate payroll changes related to employee transfers, promotions, and salary adjustments.Other DutiesSupport the Controller and Business Office with financial, accounting, and payroll-related projects.Participate in professional development activities related to payroll, accounting, and school finance.Perform other duties as assigned by the Controller, Chief Financial Officer, or Superintendent/CEO.Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:Knowledge of payroll laws, wage and hour regulations, and payroll accounting principlesKnowledge of Texas Retirement System (TRS) reporting requirementsKnowledge of IRS payroll tax regulations and related reporting requirementsAbility to interpret payroll policies, procedures, and regulationsStrong mathematical and analytical skillsExcellent organizational and time management skillsAbility to manage multiple deadlines and prioritiesStrong attention to detail and accuracyEffective verbal and written communication skillsAbility to maintain confidentiality of personnel and payroll informationProficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including ExcelAbility to establish and maintain positive working relationshipsWorking Conditions and Physical Requirements:Mental DemandsMaintain emotional control under pressureWork with frequent interruptionsMeet established deadlinesMaintain confidentiality of sensitive informationPhysical DemandsFrequent sitting, standing, walking, and computer useOccasional lifting and carrying up to 25 poundsRepetitive hand motions related to keyboard useEqual Opportunity Statement Tejano Center for Community Concerns is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The organization does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.Reviewed by ___________________________Date________