Payroll Specialist

Lesley University seeks a detail-oriented Payroll Specialist to ensure accurate, timely payroll for faculty, staff, and student workers in a mission-driven, student-centered environment. Responsibilities include processing bi-weekly payroll, maintaining HRIS and payroll records, managing time and attendance data, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. The role partners closely with HR and Finance, supports year-end reporting, and provides responsive service to employees.

This position thrives in Lesley's collaborative, inclusive culture focused on social justice, creativity, and educational impact.

Responsibilities

• Process bi-weekly payroll for faculty, staff, and student workers with high accuracy and confidentiality.
• Maintain employee payroll records, tax with holdings, and deductions in the HRIS/payroll system.
• Review and reconcile time and attendance data, resolving discrepancies with departments.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage, tax, and overtime regulations.
• Coordinate benefit, retirement, and garnishment deductions and reconcile with Finance.
• Prepare payroll reports for Finance, HR, audits, and regulatory filings.
• Support year-end activities including W-2s and other required statements.
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries and provide clear, service-oriented support.
• Partner with HR and Finance on process improvements and system enhancements.
• Contribute to an inclusive, mission-driven campus culture aligned with university values.

Required Skills

• Payroll processing
• HRIS systems
• ADP or similar payroll software
• Time and attendance management
• General ledger reconciliation
• Benefits and deductions administration
• FLSA and wage/hour laws
• Data entry and accuracy
• Payroll reporting
• Excel and spreadsheet skills