Payroll Specialist

Payroll Specialist

Finance

Description

JOB SUMMARY: The Payroll Specialist supports the Payroll Manager in the end-to-end processing of the College's payroll operations, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness. This role processes timesheets, reviews payroll calculations, and maintains adherence to federal, state, and local regulations. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented professional who excels in meeting deadlines, safeguarding confidential information, and performing effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Employment Type: Full-time (1.0 FTE), Exempt (Salaried), Benefits- Eligible

Salary Range: $55,000-65,000

How to apply: Continue here or visit https://gustavus.edu/jobs/ to complete the online application and submit a resume and cover letter. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Anticipated start date = Summer 2026

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Process multiple payroll cycles, including bi-weekly employee payroll, monthly student payroll, and bi-weekly summer payrolls ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant processing.
• Support monthly faculty and staff payroll while meeting established deadlines.
• Review, audit, and analyze payroll data and reports to identify discrepancies, make corrections, and maintain accurate payroll records for staff and student employees.
• Maintain employee payroll records by processing changes to tax exemptions, insurance benefits, retirement/savings deductions, job titles, and departmental transfers.
• Administer wage garnishments and child support orders, including setup, remittance, and compliance tracking.
• Apply knowledge of payroll taxation, deductions, and employer-paid benefits to ensure accurate withholdings and reporting.
• Verify overtime submissions with department managers for accuracy, authorization, and policy compliance.
• Collect, validate, and maintain employee direct deposit information with a high level of confidentiality.
• Prepare payroll reports for management, audits, and government agency requirements.
• Process vouchers, special payments, and employee deductions in accordance with payroll schedules and internal controls.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of payroll procedures, workflows, and internal policies.
• Provide responsive customer service to students and staff by resolving payroll inquiries and ensuring timely follow-through.
• Support year-end payroll activities, including W-2 and 1095-C preparation and reporting.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Prerequisites

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma
• 4+ years of payroll-related experience
• Knowledge of payroll laws and regulations
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Ability to meet established deadlines

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in business, human resources or related field
• Experience collaborating with human resources on employee onboarding, benefits and Personnel Record Management
• Experience in higher education

Gustavus offers competitive and comprehensive benefits which include:

• Medical insurance (which includes access to Nice Healthcare) as well as dental, vision, and life insurance
• Workplace accommodations for physical or mental health concerns
• Onsite health services
• Free parking, exercise classes, and use of library and athletic facilities
• Paid parental leave
• Employer contribution to retirement savings plan (after one year of employment)
• Tuition scholarships for dependents
• Tuition benefit plan for employees and spouse
• 13 paid Holidays + generous PTO plan