Payroll Specialist - Fiscal Services

BASIC FUNCTION

Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, the Payroll Specialist performs a wide range of advanced payroll and financial related services to support the district's faculty, classified, confidential, administrative, temporary, and student employee groups. This role is responsible for the analysis, preparation, maintenance, and verification of all payroll records, transactions, and reporting. Employees in this role work with limited supervision, operate within established policies and regulations, and serve as a technical lead within payroll operations.

SUPERVISION

Receives general supervision from an assigned administrator or designee. May provide functional guidance to other staff and student workers or temporary employees as needed. There are no direct reports under this position.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

Process full-cycle payroll for assigned payroll groups, ensuring accurate and timely payment in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, district policies, Education Code, Labor Code, and collective bargaining agreements.

Enter, validate, and reconcile payroll data, including timekeeping, wage adjustments, premiums, overtime, retroactive compensation, and special payments as applicable.

Maintain up-to-date payroll calendars; ensure adherence to district payroll timelines.

Function as the lead in payroll by coordinating workflow, training staff, and supporting others as needed in timely completion of payroll cycles.

Assist with troubleshoot issues of payroll team members and escalate to management as appropriate.

Recommend process improvements and assist in the implementation of established payroll procedures.

Participate in task forces, meetings, and provide input on process improvements and technology implementations.

Ensure compliance with IRS, EDD, CalSTRS, CalPERS, Education Code, Labor Code, and all payroll-related regulatory requirements.

Prepare and reconcile payroll tax deposits for various pay cycles.

Prepare and reconcile various monthly, quarterly, and annual payroll reports, retirement reports, and year-end wage reporting.

Participate in internal and external audits and provide required documentation.

Collaborate with IT, HR, and Accounting to implement payroll system updates, processes, reporting, and regulatory requirements.

Serve as a technical resource to district staff on payroll processes, benefit deductions, pay timelines, and contract-specific pay provisions.

Provide clear communication regarding payroll policies and pay impacts, respond promptly to employee inquiries, and resolve discrepancies.

Performs other related duties as assigned or requested.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree and four (4) years directly related payroll experience; OR Two (2) years college level course and six (6) years directly related payroll experience; OR Ten (10) years of directly related payroll experience required.