Program Analyst - Fiscal Services Department; Payroll

The impact you will have:
As a Program Analyst supporting the Fiscal Services Department (Payroll), you will play a key role in ensuring that San José Unified employees are paid accurately, on time, and in compliance with all applicable regulations. You will support payroll operations serving employees across departments and school sites by processing timesheets, coordinating benefit-related payments, and resolving payroll and pay-related inquiries. Your work directly supports employee trust, operational stability, and fiscal accountability.

By applying strong analytical, organizational, and customer service skills, you help ensure payroll processes are consistent, compliant, and responsive to the needs of employees, departments, and school sites. A more detailed job description is available at:  analyst.

You are a detail-oriented and analytical professional who values accuracy, consistency, and service. You communicate clearly, exercise sound judgment, and thrive in a fast-paced environment where deadlines, compliance, and customer service are essential. You take pride in supporting employees and departments through reliable payroll and benefits processes.

• Processing and reviewing employee timesheets for accuracy, completeness, and compliance
• Supporting payroll processing for certificated, classified, and hourly employees
• Processing and reconciling benefit-related payments and payroll deductions
• Providing customer service and technical support to employees, departments, and school sites regarding payroll and pay-related matters
• Researching and resolving payroll discrepancies, adjustments, and inquiries in a timely manner
• Collaborating with Human Resources, Finance, and school sites to ensure accurate employee pay and benefits information
• Ensuring compliance with district policies, collective bargaining agreements, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations
• Maintaining payroll records and documentation in accordance with audit and retention requirements
• Assisting with payroll reporting, data analysis, and reconciliation activities
• Supporting process improvement efforts to increase efficiency, accuracy, and consistency in payroll operations
• Contributing to a culture of service, accountability, and professionalism within the Payroll and Business Services teams

• High School Diploma or equivalent (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred)
• Two (2) or more years of experience in payroll, accounting, or financial operations
• Experience processing payroll and/or supporting payroll functions in a large or complex organization
• Strong understanding of payroll processes, including timesheets, deductions, and compliance requirements
• Proficiency in using payroll systems, financial systems, or ERP systems
• Strong computer literacy, including Microsoft Excel for data tracking, analysis, and reporting

Effective January 1, 2026, in accordance with California Senate Bill 848 (School Employee Misconduct/Child Abuse Prevention Act), applicants for employment with San José Unified are subject to enhanced child safety, training, and employment disclosure requirements.

Under SB 848, schools are required to strengthen background vetting procedures and obtain employment history information related to allegations of egregious misconduct involving students. Former employers may be contacted to release records regarding substantiated findings of misconduct as permitted by law. Failure to provide complete and accurate information regarding prior…