Payroll Specialist; HUMAN Resources Specialist

Position: Payroll Specialist (HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST)
Job

Requisition

Opening Date: 06/15/2026

Closing Date: 06/30/2026

Agency:
Department of Early Childhood

Class

Title:

HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST - 19693

Skill Option:
None

Bilingual Option:
None

Salary:
Anticipated 7/1/26 Starting Salary $6,820 monthly;
Full Range $6,820-9,875 monthly

Job Type: Salaried

Category:
Full Time

County:
Sangamon

Number of Vacancies : 1

Bargaining Unit Code: RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME

Merit Comp Code: N/A

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the  website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the Success Factors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

Position Overview:

The Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) is seeking an experienced professional to serve as its Payroll Specialist. The position involves performing complex and specialized functions related to timekeeping, payroll processing and retirement functions. This position ensures the accurate application of policies, procedures, and contractual requirements in all payroll-related activities. The Payroll Specialist leads the development, maintenance, and distribution of payroll, statistical and compliance reports to support departmental operations and decision-making.

This role serves as a designated lead worker, providing guidance, training, and support to staff involved in timekeeping and payroll processes. The Payroll Specialist works closely with departmental leadership, HR, and external agencies to resolve issues, ensure data integrity, and maintain compliance with state and federal regulations. Apply today to join a team committed to making Illinois the best place in the nation to raise a family!

Illinois Department of Early Childhood offers a robust benefit package including:

* Monday-Friday schedule

* Health, life, vision, and dental insurance

* Paid Parental leave

* Pension Plan

* Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs

* Employees earn (12) paid sick days annually
* (10-25) paid vacation days (based on years of service)

* Employees earn (3) paid personal days (pro-rated based on start date)
* (13-14) paid state holidays annually

Work hours and schedule will be mutually agreed upon by supervisor during the onboarding process.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Essential Functions

* Under general direction of the Payroll & Timekeeping Program Manager, serves as Payroll Specialist for the Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC).

* Performs complex, specialized professional duties relating to timekeeping and retirement functions for IDEC.

* Oversees the development, maintenance, and distribution of various payroll and statistical reports and correspondence.

* Serves as designated lead worker.

* Conducts periodic continuous quality improvement audit activities of payroll records.

* Performs other duties as required or assigned, which are reasonably within the scope of duties enumerated above.

Specialized Skills

* Requires two (2) years of professional work experience overseeing and executing complex payroll operations for a Code-Covered State Agency utilizing Central Payroll Systems, eTime, and Central Time & Attendance System (CTAS).

* Requires two (2) years of professional work experience interpreting and applying state or federal statutes and administrative rules related to personnel transactions, such as the Illinois Personnel Code (20 ILCS 415), Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Internal Revenue Code (IRC), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act, and collective bargaining agreements.

Minimum Qualifications

* Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of college.

* Requires two (2) years of professional human resources experience.

Preferred Qualifications

* Two (2) years of professional work experience overseeing and executing complex payroll operations for a state, federal, or private entity.

* Two (2) years of professional work experience interpreting and applying state or federal…