Specialist, Payroll

Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for performing all aspects of payroll processing for faculty, staff, and student employees, ensuring compliance with applicable federal and state laws, institutional policies, and collective bargaining agreements (if applicable). This position plays a key role in maintaining accurate payroll records, coordinating with Human Resources and Finance, and providing exceptional service to college employees. Responsible for demonstrating LSSC's core values of Caring, Communicating, Collaborating, and Celebrating when interacting with students, employees, visitors, and community members.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Include, but are not limited to the following:

• Process monthly payrolls for full-time staff, adjunct, and part-time employees with accuracy and timeliness.
• Responsible for ensuring the employee action request forms for new hires, temporary workers, transfers, promotions, and terminations are accurate and updated promptly in the payroll system.
• Verify timekeeping data, leave reports, leave requests, and earnings information to ensure compliance with institutional policies and FLSA requirements.
• Maintain and update payroll records, including new hires, terminations, pay changes, deductions, and tax withholdings.
• Coordinate with Human Resources to ensure accurate employee data related to benefits, position changes, and leave accruals.
• Reconcile payroll reports and prepare general ledger entries in coordination with the Finance Office.
• Assist with the preparation and submission of federal, state, and local tax payments and required reports such as 941, W-2, workers' compensation, and unemployment.
• Process retirement plan contributions and other benefit-related deductions in accordance with state and institutional programs.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding pay, deductions, and tax forms, providing clear and professional communication.
• Assist with annual audits, budget reporting, and year-end payroll closeout activities.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of employee and payroll information.
• Support implementation of payroll system enhancements and continuous process improvement initiatives.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail. Strong organizational, analytical, and time-management skills. Excellent interpersonal and written communication abilities. Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and institutional payroll regulations. Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Minimum Qualifications & Education

Required: Associate's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field. Minimum of three (3) years of experience in payroll or a related field. Demonstrated proficiency in payroll systems. Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and data reconciliation methods. Knowledge of payroll tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and employment compliance standards. Preferred: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field. Experience with Banner or similar ERP.

Benefits

Lake-Sumter State College provides a wide range of affordable, competitive, and comprehensive benefits that are a vital part of your total compensation package. These programs are centered around health and wellness, financial security, and professional development.