Payroll Administrator

AMS Schools•Tucson, AZ

2d•$60,000 - $80,000•Hybrid

About The Position

AMS Impact Group is seeking a detail-oriented, service-focused Payroll Administrator to support payroll operations across a growing network of schools and educational organizations. The position processes payroll, maintains records, ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, and assists employees with payroll-related matters. The successful candidate will bring experience managing high-volume, multi-state payroll and strong analytical and problem-solving skills to a fast-paced, collaborative workplace. The role supports accurate, timely employee pay and operational excellence. AMS Impact Group provides operational, financial, talent, and strategic support to Academies of Math and Science (AMS), a network of public charter schools serving nearly 10,000 students across Arizona and Arkansas. The role is based in a hybrid work environment in Tucson or Tempe, Arizona, and reports to the Controller, Shared Services. Out-of-state applicants will not be considered.

Requirements

Associate's degree or higher in Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resources, Finance, or a related field.
Four to six years of progressive payroll experience.
Experience processing payroll in a high-volume, multi-state environment.
Strong knowledge of payroll processing, wage and hour laws, payroll taxes, and deductions.
Understanding of federal, state, and local payroll compliance requirements.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including intermediate Excel skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive information.
Strong customer service mindset and ability to support employees and stakeholders effectively.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree.
Experience utilizing Workday Payroll and reporting tools.
Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation.
Experience supporting payroll operations for educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, or multi-location organizations.
Experience with HRIS, payroll, and timekeeping system integrations.
Experience working in a shared services environment.

Responsibilities

Process bi-weekly payroll for assigned employee groups using Workday Payroll.
Review and approve employee self-service payroll changes in Workday.
Validate employee hours and payroll data through time and attendance systems.
Process stipends, bonuses, supplemental earnings, and other ad hoc payments.
Prepare and process manual payroll checks when necessary.
Monitor payroll transactions for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
Complete payroll reconciliations and balance payroll reports each pay cycle.
Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies and employee pay issues.
Generate payroll reports, audits, and analyses for internal stakeholders.
Maintain accurate payroll records and supporting documentation.
Assist with year-end payroll activities, tax reporting, and audits.
Respond to employee payroll questions and concerns, including monitoring Payroll Helpdesk inquiries in a timely manner.
Partner with Human Resources and Benefits teams to resolve payroll deductions, benefit elections, and employee data discrepancies.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws.
Maintain confidentiality and security of employee payroll information.
Support payroll process improvements and system enhancements.
Assist with testing and implementation of payroll-related system updates.
Collaborate with finance, human resources, and school-based teams to ensure seamless payroll operations.
Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.