Payroll Specialist II

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Under minimal supervision, the Payroll Specialist performs technical and confidential accounting work in the maintenance of the district’s centralized, computerized payroll system for multiple groups of employees. The employee coordinates records and processes all data required to assure the timely disbursement of payroll checks, fringe benefit payments, and other related payments.

The Payroll Specialist coordinates and participates in difficult and responsible accounting work involved in keeping and reviewing financial and statistical records: performs independent work and a variety of responsible administrative services; performs tasks with considerable reliance upon the use of independent judgment. Decisions are generally based on readily available materials combined with a variety of scenarios. Determinations are generally accepted as final.

Only on occasion are questions referred to the supervisor for advice. Work is evaluated by the smooth functioning of the assigned work responsibilities, accuracy, and timely completion of assignments.

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of payroll records; for the interpretation and effective implementation of the salary system; and for developing computerized or manually prepared financial and payroll reports; and reconciliations of payroll liability and GL accounts. The employee manages and reviews the work of others assisting in the payroll function and in other areas of the Finance Department.

While guidelines exist in the form of district finance software procedures, salary and benefit schedules, Federal and state laws and regulations, and district policies, the employee is responsible for interpreting these guidelines in non‑routine and unclear situations and making decisions as to the correct course of action. The employee is also responsible for the preparation of monthly, quarterly, or annual reports in conformance with guidelines and time frames.

Contact is maintained in writing, in person, or over the telephone with district administrators, teachers, classified employees, insurance companies, “retirement” system representatives, other state and federal agencies regarding payroll procedures. Work is performed with considerable technical independence. Since the position requires working with matters of collective bargaining, the employee is considered "confidential" under Oregon law. The Payroll Specialist works under the supervision of the Payroll Supervisor.

• Manages and maintains accurate payroll records in computer system through entry and verification of pay assignments, which may involve adjustments due to overtime, changes in salary classifications, and other payroll‑related items.
• Assures timely disbursement of paychecks. Payroll information is gathered, correlated, checked, salaries and benefits computed and entered into the district’s computerized system.
• Assures accuracy and timely payment of fringe benefits and voluntary deductions. The District provides many fringe benefits, such as medical and dental insurance, disability income protection, and retirement benefits. There are also many voluntary deduction programs, tax‑sheltered annuities, IRS Section 125 programs, and additional disability income protection.
• Applies critical thinking skills in daily operations. Analyzes and solves problems independently and effectively.
• Prepares periodic reports as required. These include monthly reports to the Public Employee’s Retirement System concerning new hires, terminations, wages, contributions and employment changes. This also includes reports to our retirement third‑party administrator, workers comp and Section 125 plan administrator.
• Maintains check register by computing year‑to‑date calculations on a monthly basis to assure accurate account balance information.
• Keeps and balances accounts, checking and correcting irregularities.
• Posts, assembles, tabulates and compares financial data.
• Prepares checks, invoices and similar fiscal documents.
• Establishes and maintains operational procedural systems…