Director of Payroll

We are seeking a dynamic Director of Payroll to oversee the District's payroll operations, lead a dedicated team of professionals, ensure compliance with complex payroll laws and reporting requirements, and drive continuous improvement through technology and process innovation. This position is ideal for a customer-focused leader who is committed to operational excellence, collaboration, and supporting the employees who make student success possible.

Join us in advancing educational opportunity and strengthening our community through service, integrity, and fiscal responsibility.

As you consider this opportunity, know that Merced College is more than a community college — we are a catalyst for transformation, redefining higher education and setting new standards for excellence. Serving nearly 20,000 students each year, we are proud to be a leading center of learning and opportunity in California’s Central Valley.

Founded in 1962, Merced College blends a strong tradition of academic excellence with forward-thinking innovation to create an inclusive and engaging environment for students and employees alike. Committed to the well-being, growth, and professional success of our team, we foster collaboration and a supportive culture where every employee is empowered to make a difference. Located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, the City of Merced offers a welcoming community of more than 90,000 residents, with easy access to the Bay Area, Sacramento, and Yosemite National Park.

If you are passionate about innovation, equity, and student success, we invite you to join the Merced College team.

At Merced College, students are our focus, and we are known by their success. We transform lives through education and workforce development.

• Degree/Certificate Programs
• Transfer
• Career Technical Education
• Workforce Training
• Lifelong Learning
• Basic Skills
• Community Engagement

Merced College promotes student success through equitable access, continuous quality improvement, and institutional effectiveness, all with a focus on student achievement.

This is a classified management position. The incumbent reports directly to the Director, Business & Fiscal Services and oversees the day-to-day functions of the payroll office. The incumbent will independently perform professional work involving judgement in the interpretation and application of payroll-related policy and procedure, as well as applicable state and federal laws. The incumbent has a high frequency of responsible contact with administrative and professional staff and with other public agencies.

Director, Business & Fiscal Services

Management Range 9

Salary will be commensurate with education and experience

• Plan, coordinate and recommend payroll procedures, processes, and disbursements under the direction of the Director
• Plan, prioritize, supervise, and evaluate the work of the payroll staff; provide training and developmental support as needed
• Maintain records and update employee wage garnishments, levies, and assignments
• Reconcile and direct the timely preparation of reports to STRS and PERS
• Supervise the preparation, maintenance and processing of the District payroll
• Reconcile and make direct deposits in payroll accounts
• Communicate with a variety of offices on campus and outside agencies
• Provide technical direction to support staff conducting various payroll activities; investigate and resolve complex or unusual payroll problems, which may require specialized research or analysis
• Make deposits for taxes and retirement in a timely manner
• Reconcile and direct the timely reporting of payroll taxes to the proper agencies
• Process and balance W-2 information
• Maximize technology functionality to ensure the payroll system is fully optimized
• Recommend payroll system enhancements to comply with laws, regulations, tax requirements, reporting procedures, accounting policies, union agreements, and organizational needs
• Develop, recommend and…