Payroll Specialist

Urbana School District #116 - Urbana, IL

Full-time

Urbana, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The Payroll Specialist at Urbana School District #116 is responsible for maintaining and processing all payroll functions for the district, which includes over 850 employees. This role requires a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, as the Payroll Specialist will be tasked with processing bi-weekly payroll, coding and confirming the accuracy of timesheets, and reviewing wage computations to ensure that employees receive the correct paychecks. The position also involves maintaining a complete and systematic set of records for all payroll and related financial transactions, as well as keeping track of staff vacation, sick leave, personal leave, and any unpaid leave of absence. In addition to payroll processing, the Payroll Specialist will perform general clerical duties such as sorting, filing, scanning, answering phones, and responding to informational inquiries. The role includes cross-training in certain supervisory duties, particularly in relation to IMRF (Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund) and TRS (Teachers' Retirement System) processing. The Payroll Specialist will also assist in the processing of quarterly 941 forms, W-2s, and 1099s, and will perform other related duties as assigned by the Payroll Supervisor, Director of Accounting, and CFO. This position is essential for ensuring that payroll operations run smoothly and efficiently, and it requires a candidate who can communicate effectively, maintain confidentiality, and manage multiple tasks while meeting deadlines. The Payroll Specialist will be evaluated based on the performance standards set forth by the Board's policy on evaluation of clerical personnel.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll for over 850 employees
• Code and confirm accuracy of timesheets
• Review timesheets, wage computations, and other information to ensure the accuracy of employees' paychecks
• Maintain a complete and systematic set of records of all payroll and related financial transactions
• Maintain records of staff vacation, sick and personal leave, and unpaid leave of absence
• Perform general clerical duties, including sorting, filing, scanning, answering phones, and responding to informational inquiries
• Cross train in certain supervisor duties including IMRF and TRS processing
• Assist in the processing of quarterly 941's, W2's and 1099's
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Payroll Supervisor, Director of Accounting, and CFO

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent required; Associates degree preferred
• Three years' payroll experience, preferably in a school environment
• Basic methods, practices, and terminology used in payroll, fiscal, and financial record management
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, with a strong knowledge of Excel
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills to meet deadlines
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding staff records
• Ability to multi-task and handle interruptions with excellent time management skills
• Work effectively and efficiently with a variety of personnel from diverse backgrounds
• Ability to handle conflict in a productive manner
• Enthusiasm and a positive attitude
• Initiative in addressing work responsibilities

Benefits

• Fringe Benefits in accordance with provisions of the Urbana School District #116 Board of Education