Payroll Specialist

Hendrix College•Conway, AR

11d•$48,000 - $52,500

About The Position

Hendrix College is seeking a full-time Payroll Specialist to join the Human Resources team. Reporting to the Chief Human Resources Officer, the Payroll Specialist is responsible for accurately and efficiently processing employee compensation, including salaries, wages, taxes, and deductions. This role ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, supports payroll reporting and audits, and serves as a key liaison between Human Resources, Finance, and campus departments on all payroll-related matters.

Requirements

High school diploma required.
Minimum three years of relevant payroll experience required, preferably in a higher education environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel required.
Experience using HR Information Systems for payroll processing.
Strong knowledge of federal and state employment and payroll laws.
Excellent attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
Ability to analyze data and make informed recommendations.
Strong organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality.
Effective judgment, problem-solving skills, and the ability to respond to changing needs.
Ability to research, evaluate, and analyze methods and procedures.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to handle sensitive or difficult situations with tact and professionalism.
Ability to work under pressure and adapt to competing demands.
Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Review employment agreements and calculate payroll data for entry.
Process and reconcile student bi-weekly, regular bi-weekly, and monthly payrolls prior to final submission.
Ensure timecards are verified and approved by supervisors prior to processing.
Verify account coding for payroll transactions.
Perform W-2 and year-end payroll verifications.
Maintain student payroll records and filing of payroll documents.
Answer and process writs of garnishment.
Report FSA, HSA, and childcare deductions to third-party administrators.
Set up vendor accounts as needed.
Collaborate with HR and Finance to prepare special payroll reports.
Support internal and external audits by providing documentation, reports, and explanations.
Reconcile liability accounts for voluntary insurance premiums and submit payment requests to the Business Office.
Provide federal work-study reporting to Financial Aid to support compliance.
Respond to Arkansas Department of Workforce Services claims and record benefits paid.
Assist with year-end closing and audit preparation.
Investigate and respond to payroll inquiries from employees and supervisors.
Troubleshoot payroll and HRIS system issues, document resolutions, and communicate outcomes to stakeholders.
Provide prompt customer service by phone, email, and in person.
Assist with general HR reception coverage as needed.
Respond to employment verification requests.
Maintain awareness of payroll best practices, compliance requirements, and higher education standards through ongoing training and professional development.
Perform other duties as assigned.