Payroll Specialist I

State of Vermont • Calais, VT

21h

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist I supports the accurate and timely processing of employee pay. This position assists with a variety of payroll functions including data entry, maintaining payroll records, processing timekeeping adjustments, and verifying payroll-related changes such as tax withholding and direct deposit updates. The Payroll Specialist also responds to employee questions related to pay and benefits. Working under the guidance of a team lead or supervisor, this role follows established procedures to support the bi-weekly payroll processing for State of Vermont employees.

The ideal candidate will have a working knowledge of payroll practices and tax withholding and will thrive in a collaborative, small team environment where meeting ongoing deadlines is essential. This position requires strong attention to detail, comfort with routine data entry and mathematical calculations, and solid problem-solving skills. Experience with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel formulas, as well as Outlook and Teams is preferred. Basic accounting knowledge is also helpful. The successful candidate will be able to work independently while remaining flexible to direction from supervisors and peers, communicate clearly and professionally with employees and leadership, and maintain strict confidentiality in all aspects of the work.

Requirements

• Two (2) years or more of college coursework in accounting, business or public administration, or related field AND two (2) or more years of experience in payroll processing, tax withholding and general accounting principles, or providing administrative-level support to a business or organization.
• Four (4) years or more of professional level experience in payroll processing, tax withholding and general accounting principles, or providing administrative-level support to a business or organization.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree
• Working knowledge of payroll processing, tax withholding, multi-state taxation, and accounting
• Experience or working knowledge of the PeopleSoft HCM (Human Capital Management), Financials, or Workday payroll systems
• Knowledge of human resource principles and practices
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite

Responsibilities

• data entry
• maintaining payroll records
• processing timekeeping adjustments
• verifying payroll-related changes such as tax withholding and direct deposit updates
• responds to employee questions related to pay and benefits
• follows established procedures to support the bi-weekly payroll processing for State of Vermont employees

Benefits

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed