Payroll Analyst

General Summary

Provides analytical support for the payroll team, particularly as it relates to the payroll and time and attendance modules, and handles high volume, complex transactions. Works with all aspects of payroll including compensation, deductions, general ledger, taxes, auditing, compliance, and implementation of system updates/upgrades. Strives to make continuous improvements to overall processes.

• Extracts, validates, and imports batches from the time‑keeping system (currently Kronos) and loads files into the payroll system (currently MUNIS).
• Reviews and processes payroll deductions, such as direct deposits and 403(b) s.
• Researches and identifies innovative solutions to solve payroll issues in an increasingly complex technical environment.
• Assists in running and validating the payroll process.
• Audits payroll and personnel records to determine compliance with Massachusetts and federal laws, city policies, and employment agreements.
• Uses relevant information and individual judgment to assess risk and determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
• Develops and recommends written policies, procedures, and standards of conduct.
• Provides information to supervisors, co‑workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e‑mail, or in person.
• Uses computer and computer systems (including hardware and software) to develop systems, compile data, or process information.
• Conducts pre‑implementation audits to determine if proposed system and program changes will work as planned.
• Provides guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems, or process‑related topics.
• Maintains confidentiality and integrity of personal information.
• Keeps up‑to‑date technically and applies new knowledge to the job.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Chief Financial Officer or his/her designee.
• Performs related duties of a similar nature and level as assigned.

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.

Experience:

1‑3 years of experience, including payroll experience. Appropriate education substitutions may be made.

• Ability to gather and analyze/synthesize data, confirming its accuracy and adequacy as part of the analysis process.
• Ability to comprehend and infer from written material.
• Ability to determine compliance with contract requirements.
• Ability to produce clear and concise reports with thorough backup.
• Ability to specify methods to resolve payroll issues, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to filter through significant detail and provide business deliverables.
• Ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions.
• Ability to work independently; self‑motivated and goal‑oriented.
• Strong organization skills to meet deadlines and balance responsibilities.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Knowledge of document controls and databases, with emphasis on Payroll and Time and Attendance systems.
• Knowledge of accounting principles and general ledger account classifications.

• Interpersonal skills to relate and interact with a diverse population.
• Detail‑oriented planning and ability to set priorities, objectives, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to provide positive and effective customer service.
• Adaptability to new methods and procedures.
• Ability to work independently or as a member of a team.
• Listening skills, ability to work under pressure, address conflict, and solve problems.
• Reading, analyzing, and interpreting policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Effective presentation of information with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Good judgment and decision‑making.
• Operation of standard office equipment (computer, keyboard, monitor, copier, scanner, telephone).
• Effective oral and written communication.

Exert up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, and negative amount of force frequently; may need to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Reasonable accommodations may be made for disabilities.

Position requires work in an office or similar indoor environment.

The Springfield Public Schools does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, or marital status. The district is committed to maintaining a work environment free from discrimination and retaliation, and provides equal opportunity for all qualified applicants.