Payroll Specialist Job New York New York USA,Accounting

Location: New York

Must apply online. To complete application, click "apply" box to the right and above.

Date: June 24, 2026

Job Title: Payroll Specialist

Department: Finance

Reports Directly To: Payroll Manager

Job Group: K, Non-Exempt

Salary Range: $41,067 – $51,959

Position Closing Date: Open until filled

Primary Function of Position

Responsible for processing payroll transactions, maintaining payroll records, and supporting payroll operations in compliance with federal, state, retirement system, and district requirements.

Essential Job Functions Payroll Processing

Process payroll transactions and payroll adjustments accurately and timely.

Review and enter employee time records, supplemental compensation, overtime, substitute pay, adjunct pay, stipend payments, and payroll-related information.

Utilize technology to import pay information from one payroll system to another.

Process payroll deductions and reconcile amounts against deduction vendor billings for accurate payments.

Process employee hires, transfers, position changes, leave adjustments, deduction changes, and terminations in accordance with established procedures.

Verify payroll calculations and identify discrepancies for correction.

Audit payroll data prior to payroll processing to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Balance payroll reports and assist in reconciliation activities.

Provide direct deposit transactions for processing and maintain direct deposit records.

Assist in preparation and verification of final payroll processing prior to release.

Employee Records & Compliance Support

Maintain payroll records, files, and documentation in accordance with district procedures and records retention requirements.

Process child support orders, garnishments, tax levies, bankruptcy orders, and other legally required payroll deductions. Maintain garnishment documentation and communication with necessary involved parties.

Assist with unemployment claim responses, employment verification requests, and payroll-related information requests.

Maintain records necessary for federal, state, retirement system, and district reporting requirements.

Assist in preparation of payroll reports and supporting documentation for audits and regulatory reporting.

Maintain working knowledge of applicable payroll laws, regulations, and district procedures.

Employee Service & Department Support

Respond to employee payroll inquiries in a professional, courteous, and timely manner.

Assist employees in understanding payroll deductions, leave balances, tax withholding elections, direct deposit information, and compensation information.

Coordinate with Human Resources regarding employee payroll information and documentation.

Coordinate with supervisors and department staff to obtain payroll-related information and resolve discrepancies.

Provide excellent customer service to employees, retirees, vendors, and external agencies.

Payroll Systems & Data Management

Enter and maintain payroll information within payroll, HRIS, timekeeping, and related software systems.

Review payroll data for accuracy, completeness, and consistency across systems.

Assist with payroll system testing, upgrades, implementations, and validation activities.

Identify payroll processing issues and communicate recommendations for improvement to the Payroll Manager.

Assist in maintaining payroll procedure documentation and process records.

General Responsibilities

Maintain confidentiality of employee, payroll, and district information.

Maintain reliable, dependable, and punctual attendance.

Perform duties in accordance with district policies, procedures, and internal controls.

Ability to be present and perform duties as described under working conditions and contract details.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Three (3) years of payroll, bookkeeping, accounting or related experience required; associate's degree in a related field is preferred.
Payroll experience in a public education, governmental, or public‑sector environment is preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
Experience with payroll, HRIS, timekeeping, and benefits administration systems.
Experience processing retirement,…