Payroll Manager

About Carmen:

Carmen Schools of Science & Technology is a network of high-performing charter schools in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, serving students in grades 6–12. We believe all students can succeed in college, build meaningful careers, contribute to their communities, and lead fulfilling family lives. We focus on academic excellence, community engagement, and student leadership, with equity at the core of our mission.

The Payroll Manager is responsible for managing all payroll functions and performing a variety of accounting and financial reporting duties for the charter school network. This position ensures accurate and timely processing of payroll for all staff across multiple campuses, compliance with federal and state payroll regulations, and proper accounting treatment of payroll-related expenses. The role also supports general ledger maintenance, reconciliations, financial statement preparation, and audits in accordance with charter school financial policies and applicable regulations.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field required
• 3-5 years of experience in payroll processing and general accounting; experience in a school, nonprofit, or government organization preferred.
• Knowledge of charter school finance and state education funding mechanisms a plus

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of payroll laws, accounting principles and internal controls
• Proficiency in accounting software and payroll systems (e.g., Paychex, Abila/MIP Quick Brooks, or similar).
• Advanced Excel and data analysis skills
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills: ability to work effectively with staff at multiple campuses.
• High Level of integrity and discretion with confidential information

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Payroll Administration

• Process bi-weekly payroll for all employees across multiple school sites, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with applicable laws and school policies.
• Maintain payroll records, including new hires, terminations, leaves of absence, benefits deductions, and other changes.
• Prepare and submit payroll tax filings, W-2s, and other required reports.
• Ensure accurate reporting and remittance of retirement, health, and other benefit deductions.
• Respond to payroll-related inquiries from employees and school administrators with professionalism and confidentiality.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour laws.

Accounting and Financial Reporting

• Record payroll journal entries, reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts, and assist with month-end and year-end closings.
• Support the preparation of financial statements, budgets, and forecasts for the school network.
• Assist in monitoring grant-funded payroll allocations and ensure compliance with restricted fund requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of accounts payable, receivable, and other financial transactions as assigned.
• Support annual financial and compliance audits, including preparation of schedules and supporting documentation.
• Collaborate with school site leaders to ensure adherence to internal controls and fiscal policies.

Compliance and Systems

• Ensure all payroll and accounting processes comply with charter school regulations, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and federal and state education funding requirements.
• Maintain and update payroll and accounting systems (e.g., Paychex, Abila/MIP, Quick Books, or similar ERP systems).
• Support process improvements and system upgrades to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Maintain confidentiality of all personnel and financial information.

The position will work predominantly Monday – Friday at the network office with some travel to individual campuses and occasional travel for recruitment events.

Carmen Schools also offers excellent health and worksite benefits, free life insurance, free employee assistance program (EAP), free short-term disability insurance, 403b retirement plan with match, flexible spending accounts, and…