Payroll Specialist

Northeast Metro 916•White Bear Lake, MN

14d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Payroll Specialist works collaboratively with the Finance and Human Resources teams to support payroll functions for union and non-union positions. They are responsible for performing a wide range of HR & Payroll functions with a high degree of accuracy, timeliness, and confidentiality.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Accounting, Business, Human Resources, or related field required
Two (2+) or more years of payroll, human resources and/or other applicable experience
Experience with Skyward or similar payroll/HRIS systems preferred
Strong ability to handle confidential information with discretion
Excellent attention to detail
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions
Strong analytical skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with staff at all levels while treating others with dignity and respect
Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present information
Positions in this class typically require: reaching, standing, walking, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions.
Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Walking and standing are required only occasionally.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred
preferably in a public sector or school district environment

Responsibilities

Processes personnel transactions including new hires, terminations, stipends, longevity, benefits, leaves of absence, and other pay adjustments in accordance with established payroll deadlines and district policies.
Audits payroll data and employee records to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with applicable laws, collective bargaining agreements, and internal controls.
Maintains confidentiality and secures sensitive payroll information.
Enters and maintains payroll-related data in the HRIS system (Skyward), including pay codes, deductions, benefit elections, assignment splits, calendars, direct deposits, and W-4s.
Performs periodic reconciliations and updates for payroll accounts and employee records.
Manages payroll-related benefits and deductions such as PERA/TRA, TSA, health insurance, life insurance, COBRA, and retiree billing.
Coordinates updates for employees returning from leave and ensures proper remittance and reporting.
Serves as a primary point of contact for payroll-related questions from employees.
Provides training, guidance, and support on payroll procedures, ensuring understanding of contracts, policies, and regulatory requirements.
Prepares and submits required reports and filings including employment verifications, MN unemployment wage detail, PERA/TRA reports, and annual census or leave reports.
Ensures timely and accurate submission to external agencies and vendors.
Collaborates with HR and Finance staff to ensure payroll accuracy and alignment with personnel actions.
Provides backup support for payroll processing, and participates in special projects and year-end activities as needed.
Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.